Psychiatrists in 10506

Photo of Philip Benjamin Cawkwell, Psychiatrist, MD
Philip Benjamin Cawkwell
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
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Photo of Ashly Oommen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashly Oommen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ashly Oommen, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at TTC Psychiatric. She provides tailored mental wellness services for sustained relief from depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder amongst other conditions. The practice also offers TMS and Spravato treatment. With a focus on integrative care, Ashly is committed to understanding your unique journey and creating an individualized plan of care that aligns with your needs and goals.
Ashly Oommen, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at TTC Psychiatric. She provides tailored mental wellness services for sustained relief from depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder amongst other conditions. The practice also offers TMS and Spravato treatment. With a focus on integrative care, Ashly is committed to understanding your unique journey and creating an individualized plan of care that aligns with your needs and goals.
(914) 279-3860 View (914) 279-3860
Photo of Joan Jablow, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Joan Jablow
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 25 years’ experience treating individual adults and teens, adult couples, and families of all ages. In addition to psychotherapy, I am licensed to prescribe medications. My style is active and engaged, and I view trust, honesty and humor as key ingredients in forming an effective relationship with my clients. I encourage you to ask questions, and we both agree on treatment approaches and goals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 25 years’ experience treating individual adults and teens, adult couples, and families of all ages. In addition to psychotherapy, I am licensed to prescribe medications. My style is active and engaged, and I view trust, honesty and humor as key ingredients in forming an effective relationship with my clients. I encourage you to ask questions, and we both agree on treatment approaches and goals.
(914) 819-5694 View (914) 819-5694
Photo of Rhea Johnson, Psychiatrist, MD
Rhea Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Do you feel intense fear or sadness which has your life or psychotherapy at an impasse? I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My practice specializes in the medication management of adults (in particular women) with mood, anxiety and attentional disorders. I have special expertise in treating individuals who also have medical illnesses or who are pregnant/post-partum/breastfeeding as well as perimenopausal/menopausal and in need of medication support as a component of their care.
Do you feel intense fear or sadness which has your life or psychotherapy at an impasse? I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My practice specializes in the medication management of adults (in particular women) with mood, anxiety and attentional disorders. I have special expertise in treating individuals who also have medical illnesses or who are pregnant/post-partum/breastfeeding as well as perimenopausal/menopausal and in need of medication support as a component of their care.
(914) 618-3403 View (914) 618-3403
Photo of Drew Bianchi, Psychiatrist, MD
Drew Bianchi
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a therapist first and foremost. I am also a Mt Sinai and NYU-trained psychiatrist, and can prescribe medication when appropriate. I have over 10 years experience working with children (tweens and up) and adults (individuals and couples).
I am a therapist first and foremost. I am also a Mt Sinai and NYU-trained psychiatrist, and can prescribe medication when appropriate. I have over 10 years experience working with children (tweens and up) and adults (individuals and couples).
(646) 759-1265 View (646) 759-1265
Photo of Sarah Kent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Sarah Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Serves Area
I have successfully treated patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Hallucinations and Delusions as well as addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with patients as young as 2 years old and as old as 105 years old.
I have successfully treated patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Hallucinations and Delusions as well as addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with patients as young as 2 years old and as old as 105 years old.
(516) 701-2131 View (516) 701-2131
Photo of Dr. Sheila Devlin-Craane, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC
Dr. Sheila Devlin-Craane
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC
Serves Area
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc, NY & CT / Dr Devlin is a DNP, & is EMDR certified . Experience encompasses than 35 yrs as practitioner in medical, oncology and psychiatric treatment doctorally prepared in psychiatric MH. Specializations: post traumatic stress disorder and trauma related conditions. Modalities : psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, integrative methods, & sound healing. By appointment only: 203 405-9254
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc, NY & CT / Dr Devlin is a DNP, & is EMDR certified . Experience encompasses than 35 yrs as practitioner in medical, oncology and psychiatric treatment doctorally prepared in psychiatric MH. Specializations: post traumatic stress disorder and trauma related conditions. Modalities : psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, integrative methods, & sound healing. By appointment only: 203 405-9254
(203) 405-9254 View (203) 405-9254

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Perry Githens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Perry Githens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Beacon, NY 12508
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I also have the ability to manage difficult complex psychiatric cases.
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I also have the ability to manage difficult complex psychiatric cases.
(860) 792-4332 View (860) 792-4332
Photo of Bridget Lennon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNP
Bridget Lennon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Beacon, NY 12508
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, working predominantly with children/families and young adults in the Hudson Valley. I hold master's degrees from Drexel University and Columbia University. As both a social worker and a nurse, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including inpatient care, family systems/school-based, and outpatient services. The goal of medication treatment is to help reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and enhance your overall well-being. I strive to use the least amount of medication necessary to achieve your desired outcome.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, working predominantly with children/families and young adults in the Hudson Valley. I hold master's degrees from Drexel University and Columbia University. As both a social worker and a nurse, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including inpatient care, family systems/school-based, and outpatient services. The goal of medication treatment is to help reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and enhance your overall well-being. I strive to use the least amount of medication necessary to achieve your desired outcome.
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Photo of Nkwachi Ebere - Headway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Headway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Nkwachi Ebere, MSN, PMHNP-BC. According to Dr. Seuss “When something bad happens, you have 3 choices. You can either let it define you, let it destroy you, or you can let it strengthen you”. I can guide you to make choices that will strengthen you by providing evidence based psychiatric services (Psychiatric evaluations, medications and psychotherapy) via telehealth. Currently accepting this insurance: Aetna, Cigna, Optum and Empire blue cross blue shield. Appointments are scheduled through www.Nkwachi Ebere-Nurse Practitioner headway.com. contact number: 9176938258.
Nkwachi Ebere, MSN, PMHNP-BC. According to Dr. Seuss “When something bad happens, you have 3 choices. You can either let it define you, let it destroy you, or you can let it strengthen you”. I can guide you to make choices that will strengthen you by providing evidence based psychiatric services (Psychiatric evaluations, medications and psychotherapy) via telehealth. Currently accepting this insurance: Aetna, Cigna, Optum and Empire blue cross blue shield. Appointments are scheduled through www.Nkwachi Ebere-Nurse Practitioner headway.com. contact number: 9176938258.
(718) 701-8761 View (718) 701-8761
Photo of Tolulope Onanuga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Tolulope Onanuga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client faces challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or ADHD. They seek compassionate, individualized care to navigate their mental health, understand their emotions, and achieve personal growth. Their goal is to feel empowered and regain control of their lives.
My ideal client faces challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or ADHD. They seek compassionate, individualized care to navigate their mental health, understand their emotions, and achieve personal growth. Their goal is to feel empowered and regain control of their lives.
(718) 814-5270 View (718) 814-5270
Photo of Maureen B Doyle, Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, PMHCNS-, CARN, CNE
Maureen B Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, PMHCNS-, CARN, CNE
Online Only
I am currently accepting new clients. MY FORTE IS TALK THERAPY. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE! Hope for relief from pain and dreams of becoming one's best self require an empathic foundation of trust. Imagine that you are harnessing your intuitive power to change. If you would welcome a companion-guide on such a journey, contact me, I'll do my best to help. Extensive experience as an Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse in both direct clinical practice and teaching in academic and clinical settings, provides a secure base of wisdom and evidence that informs my practice.
I am currently accepting new clients. MY FORTE IS TALK THERAPY. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE! Hope for relief from pain and dreams of becoming one's best self require an empathic foundation of trust. Imagine that you are harnessing your intuitive power to change. If you would welcome a companion-guide on such a journey, contact me, I'll do my best to help. Extensive experience as an Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse in both direct clinical practice and teaching in academic and clinical settings, provides a secure base of wisdom and evidence that informs my practice.
(914) 229-9268 View (914) 229-9268
Photo of Feng Liu, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Feng Liu
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Is your child smart but gets poor grades in school? Is your child too shy or too worried about blending in with peers? Does your child lose interest in things and refuse to go to school? Does your child seem angry, sad, tired, argumentative or unable to focus? I can help, with my 8 years of experience as an attending psychiatrist in the child inpatient unit at NYU-Bellevue Hospital and 12 years of experience as an outpatient psychiatrist in mid/downtown Manhattan, and with my knowledge and skills as a Clinical Assistant Professor in Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine.
Is your child smart but gets poor grades in school? Is your child too shy or too worried about blending in with peers? Does your child lose interest in things and refuse to go to school? Does your child seem angry, sad, tired, argumentative or unable to focus? I can help, with my 8 years of experience as an attending psychiatrist in the child inpatient unit at NYU-Bellevue Hospital and 12 years of experience as an outpatient psychiatrist in mid/downtown Manhattan, and with my knowledge and skills as a Clinical Assistant Professor in Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine.
(646) 798-9217 View (646) 798-9217
Photo of Maureen Laffey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maureen Laffey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Maureen has over 25 years of experience in health care. She is a graduate of Niagara University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing, then a master’s degree as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Hunter College. She has worked as a consultant for those experiencing adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief, conflict, relationship issues, and others. Her professional skills include critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and communication. Maureen will collaborate with you, and if needed, she will present and prescribe a medication regimen that can benefit you towards moving forward and succeeding.
Maureen has over 25 years of experience in health care. She is a graduate of Niagara University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing, then a master’s degree as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Hunter College. She has worked as a consultant for those experiencing adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief, conflict, relationship issues, and others. Her professional skills include critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and communication. Maureen will collaborate with you, and if needed, she will present and prescribe a medication regimen that can benefit you towards moving forward and succeeding.
(646) 480-6738 View (646) 480-6738
Photo of Daphne Wang, Psychiatrist, MD
Daphne Wang
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am Dr. Daphne Wang. I believe in a warm, collaborative approach, where I spend time getting to know and truly understand my patients and together with my clinical expertise, provide expertly tailored treatments. My training allows me to understand a person from their developmental beginnings and how they are shaped by biological, psychological and sociological aspects of their lives. I am also fluent in Mandarin and have extensive experience working with Chinese speaking patients and recognize the importance of providing culturally sensitive care.
Hello, I am Dr. Daphne Wang. I believe in a warm, collaborative approach, where I spend time getting to know and truly understand my patients and together with my clinical expertise, provide expertly tailored treatments. My training allows me to understand a person from their developmental beginnings and how they are shaped by biological, psychological and sociological aspects of their lives. I am also fluent in Mandarin and have extensive experience working with Chinese speaking patients and recognize the importance of providing culturally sensitive care.
(929) 605-5381 View (929) 605-5381
Photo of Uros Koprivica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(516) 715-5219 View (516) 715-5219
Photo of Dr. Kathleen Jude Estimé, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Dr. Kathleen Jude Estimé
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Fortis Mentis Psychiatry, we are led by a compassionate provider who brings a wealth of experience, both personal and professional, to the world of mental health care. An Army veteran, our founder understands the challenges of mental health, especially in high-stress environments. This personal journey inspired a deep commitment to creating accessible, inclusive, and culturally-sensitive mental health services that cater to the needs of all individuals. With a prestigious PMHNP degree from Nova Southeastern University, our provider was honored with the Spirit of the Nursing Award. She's always honoring the spirit of service.
At Fortis Mentis Psychiatry, we are led by a compassionate provider who brings a wealth of experience, both personal and professional, to the world of mental health care. An Army veteran, our founder understands the challenges of mental health, especially in high-stress environments. This personal journey inspired a deep commitment to creating accessible, inclusive, and culturally-sensitive mental health services that cater to the needs of all individuals. With a prestigious PMHNP degree from Nova Southeastern University, our provider was honored with the Spirit of the Nursing Award. She's always honoring the spirit of service.
(561) 269-9345 View (561) 269-9345
Photo of Colletta Jerrick, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP
Colletta Jerrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP
Serves Area
Colletta Jerrick is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2022. She has a PMHNP-BC, MSN-RN, and TNCC. Colletta believes in working closely and respectfully with all clients to meet their health goals and providing evidence-based practice for safe patient care. She is here to help! In her spare time, Colletta enjoys playing volleyball, traveling, and spending time with family/friends.
Colletta Jerrick is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2022. She has a PMHNP-BC, MSN-RN, and TNCC. Colletta believes in working closely and respectfully with all clients to meet their health goals and providing evidence-based practice for safe patient care. She is here to help! In her spare time, Colletta enjoys playing volleyball, traveling, and spending time with family/friends.
(631) 635-6875 View (631) 635-6875
Photo of Ingrid L Montgomery - Ingrid L. Montgomery, MD, MPH, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Ingrid L. Montgomery, MD, MPH, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Pearl River, NY 10965
I am a board certified psychiatrist treating adolescents and adults suffering from stress related issues that are causing dysfunction in your life. Some issues are as simple as learning healthy coping skills and having a support system that understands you. If you are suffering from a new onset or chronic illness such as bipolar, depression, substance use disorder, or anxiety, our practice will provide both medication and therapy to help in certain cases. You will receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We provide concierge service (travel) to you in the comfort of your home or office-(postponed).
I am a board certified psychiatrist treating adolescents and adults suffering from stress related issues that are causing dysfunction in your life. Some issues are as simple as learning healthy coping skills and having a support system that understands you. If you are suffering from a new onset or chronic illness such as bipolar, depression, substance use disorder, or anxiety, our practice will provide both medication and therapy to help in certain cases. You will receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We provide concierge service (travel) to you in the comfort of your home or office-(postponed).
(347) 658-1169 View (347) 658-1169
Photo of Sandra M. Sarro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Sandra M. Sarro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Syosset, NY 11791
Sandra M. Sarro, has been in the field of psychiatry for over 30 years. Sandra received her Masters degree in Nursing with specialization in psychiatry across the life span from Stonybrook University. She earned board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner prior to entering private practice. Ms. Sarro is in private practice in Syosett, NY. Her practice includes comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management and individual psychotherapy. The specialities she treats includes but is not limited to treating patients with Depression, Anxiety,
Sandra M. Sarro, has been in the field of psychiatry for over 30 years. Sandra received her Masters degree in Nursing with specialization in psychiatry across the life span from Stonybrook University. She earned board certification as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner prior to entering private practice. Ms. Sarro is in private practice in Syosett, NY. Her practice includes comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management and individual psychotherapy. The specialities she treats includes but is not limited to treating patients with Depression, Anxiety,
(516) 744-3499 View (516) 744-3499

See more therapy options for 10506

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10506

< 10

Psychiatrists in 10506 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% ADHD
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Sleep or Insomnia
86% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 10506 see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10506?

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.