Psychiatrists in 10528

Photo of Dr. Tyler Wright, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tyler Wright
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Wright is a psychiatrist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Dr. Wright is a psychiatrist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(619) 333-5663 View (619) 333-5663
Photo of Christopher S. Aloezos - Christopher S. Aloezos, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Christopher S. Aloezos, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
I am a psychiatrist board certified in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry and provide comprehensive mental health treatment for adults - including psychotherapy and medication management, when indicated. I combine evidence-based treatment with person-centered care, and understand the intrinsic importance of the doctor-patient alliance. While I am a mental health expert, I know that each patient brings their unique life story, culture, and perspective to their mental health needs. In doing so, I work together with my patients to build insight and ultimately achieve treatment goals.
I am a psychiatrist board certified in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry and provide comprehensive mental health treatment for adults - including psychotherapy and medication management, when indicated. I combine evidence-based treatment with person-centered care, and understand the intrinsic importance of the doctor-patient alliance. While I am a mental health expert, I know that each patient brings their unique life story, culture, and perspective to their mental health needs. In doing so, I work together with my patients to build insight and ultimately achieve treatment goals.
(347) 997-8468 View (347) 997-8468
Photo of Bridgette L Riley, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bridgette L Riley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
Life is a challenge and to be honest it is. These challenges you are dealing with can have an impact on your thought , mood and behavior. I want to help you navigate through those challenges and get you back in control .
Life is a challenge and to be honest it is. These challenges you are dealing with can have an impact on your thought , mood and behavior. I want to help you navigate through those challenges and get you back in control .
(914) 240-2570 View (914) 240-2570
Photo of Dr. Becky Jordan - Founder, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Becky Jordan - Founder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
I am a NY/MD Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Veteran & Professor with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have specialty training in psychiatry to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Treatment is customized to the individual client needs I perform psychiatric evaluations to diagnosis, prescribe and manage psychiatric medications. I collaborate with medical providers, therapists/school psychologists to provide comprehensive psychiatric treatment. I prescribe Medical Marijuana for many conditions.
I am a NY/MD Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Veteran & Professor with a Doctor of Nursing Practice. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have specialty training in psychiatry to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. Treatment is customized to the individual client needs I perform psychiatric evaluations to diagnosis, prescribe and manage psychiatric medications. I collaborate with medical providers, therapists/school psychologists to provide comprehensive psychiatric treatment. I prescribe Medical Marijuana for many conditions.
(914) 315-4291 View (914) 315-4291
Photo of Dimitry Francois, Psychiatrist
Dimitry Francois
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
I am an Ivy League-trained and triple-board certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. My expertise is in diagnosing and treating complex psychiatric conditions, including late-life depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, substance use, and other disorders.
I am an Ivy League-trained and triple-board certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. My expertise is in diagnosing and treating complex psychiatric conditions, including late-life depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, substance use, and other disorders.
(914) 477-2906 View (914) 477-2906
Photo of Adam Knowles, MD, Psychiatrist
Adam Knowles
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
As the former medical director of a large outpatient psychiatry clinic, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my work with each of my patients. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and ADHD with medication management. Just as important as my pharmacological expertise, my philosophy is to treat patients with the kindness, respect, and dignity that they deserve and good outcomes will soon follow.
As the former medical director of a large outpatient psychiatry clinic, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to my work with each of my patients. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and ADHD with medication management. Just as important as my pharmacological expertise, my philosophy is to treat patients with the kindness, respect, and dignity that they deserve and good outcomes will soon follow.
(914) 559-7732 View (914) 559-7732
Photo of Barbara Fontane, MD, Psychiatrist
Barbara Fontane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
I provide support for anxiety and depression linked to family or relationship challenges. Whether you opt for medication, therapy, or a combination of both, I'm here to assist. Opening up about deeply personal fears and worries can be daunting, but I'm here to guide you through it. I understand the desire for a more fulfilling life and the complexities of treatment. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions for your convenience. Let's work together to address your concerns and improve your well-being.
I provide support for anxiety and depression linked to family or relationship challenges. Whether you opt for medication, therapy, or a combination of both, I'm here to assist. Opening up about deeply personal fears and worries can be daunting, but I'm here to guide you through it. I understand the desire for a more fulfilling life and the complexities of treatment. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions for your convenience. Let's work together to address your concerns and improve your well-being.
(914) 359-3665 View (914) 359-3665
Balu Kalayam, MD PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
As a Boarded psychiatrist based in Westchester Co, NY, specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry, I also bring into my practice a background in Neurology and Medicine that enables me to address complex diagnostic and behavioral issues. Working with patients and their families, I have used a wide variety of treatments from individual psychotherapy, lifestyle change, different psychopharmacological tools and ketamine therapy to help patients. My practice includes patients 18 yo onward, including elderly patients with dementia and other neuropsychiatric syndromes and end-of-life care. I only work on a fee for service basis.
As a Boarded psychiatrist based in Westchester Co, NY, specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry, I also bring into my practice a background in Neurology and Medicine that enables me to address complex diagnostic and behavioral issues. Working with patients and their families, I have used a wide variety of treatments from individual psychotherapy, lifestyle change, different psychopharmacological tools and ketamine therapy to help patients. My practice includes patients 18 yo onward, including elderly patients with dementia and other neuropsychiatric syndromes and end-of-life care. I only work on a fee for service basis.
(914) 256-1961 View (914) 256-1961
Photo of John A. Zagat, MD, Psychiatrist
John A. Zagat
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working in private practice in Westchester county (Harrison) as well as Greenwich Village. In addition to my practice, I am affiliated with NYU Child Study Center as an Adjunct Faculty Member, and I am a volunteer faculty member at New York Medical College. Previously, I was an attending psychiatrist at the Behavioral Health Center at Westchester Medical Center, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at New York Medical College.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working in private practice in Westchester county (Harrison) as well as Greenwich Village. In addition to my practice, I am affiliated with NYU Child Study Center as an Adjunct Faculty Member, and I am a volunteer faculty member at New York Medical College. Previously, I was an attending psychiatrist at the Behavioral Health Center at Westchester Medical Center, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at New York Medical College.
(212) 301-0517 View (212) 301-0517
Photo of Karen G. Gennaro, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist
Karen G. Gennaro
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
AS A PSYCHIATRIST WHO IS ALSO A PSYCHOANALYST, I can help you better understand the root of your issues and develop methods for coping and moving forward. I will offer treatment tailored to your specific needs to help you maximize your unique strengths and shore up any vulnerabilities. Together we will work to enhance your sense of individuality, community and personal freedom. You will gain the strength to finally break out of old habits and release new potentials. Although I am an expert using psychiatric medication, I ONLY OFFER MEDICATION MANAGEMENT TO PEOPLE WILLING TO WORK WITH ME IN AT LEAST ONCE WEEKLY THERAPY.
AS A PSYCHIATRIST WHO IS ALSO A PSYCHOANALYST, I can help you better understand the root of your issues and develop methods for coping and moving forward. I will offer treatment tailored to your specific needs to help you maximize your unique strengths and shore up any vulnerabilities. Together we will work to enhance your sense of individuality, community and personal freedom. You will gain the strength to finally break out of old habits and release new potentials. Although I am an expert using psychiatric medication, I ONLY OFFER MEDICATION MANAGEMENT TO PEOPLE WILLING TO WORK WITH ME IN AT LEAST ONCE WEEKLY THERAPY.
(914) 260-6437 View (914) 260-6437
Photo of Rebecca M Gibbons, CAGS, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rebecca M Gibbons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CAGS, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
I specialize in offering personalized services to individuals who are dealing with immediate challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. My focus is on providing individualized support, utilizing dynamic psychotherapy and integrative mental health care to address any complex issues. My ultimate goal is to assist clients in achieving wellness by leveraging my expertise and fostering a strong therapeutic relationship. I am committed to guiding individuals on their journey towards improved well-being and mental health.
I specialize in offering personalized services to individuals who are dealing with immediate challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. My focus is on providing individualized support, utilizing dynamic psychotherapy and integrative mental health care to address any complex issues. My ultimate goal is to assist clients in achieving wellness by leveraging my expertise and fostering a strong therapeutic relationship. I am committed to guiding individuals on their journey towards improved well-being and mental health.
(914) 306-9072 View (914) 306-9072
Photo of Steve Velazquez, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Steve Velazquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
Steve Velazquez is an ANCC board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has over 7 years of experience in improving the lives of individuals suffering from mental health disorders. Steve is a warm, non-judgmental, and open-minded provider who will meet his clients at their level, and together, strive to achieve mental restoration and liberation.
Steve Velazquez is an ANCC board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has over 7 years of experience in improving the lives of individuals suffering from mental health disorders. Steve is a warm, non-judgmental, and open-minded provider who will meet his clients at their level, and together, strive to achieve mental restoration and liberation.
(914) 449-4606 View (914) 449-4606
Photo of Tyler Wright, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Tyler Wright
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
I help adults overcome depression and anxiety through an integrated, holistic, patient-centered approach. I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating difficult life transitions, such as separation or divorce. I also specialize in helping adults manage bipolar and psychotic disorders, providing comprehensive care tailored to each person's unique needs.
I help adults overcome depression and anxiety through an integrated, holistic, patient-centered approach. I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating difficult life transitions, such as separation or divorce. I also specialize in helping adults manage bipolar and psychotic disorders, providing comprehensive care tailored to each person's unique needs.
(914) 460-5986 View (914) 460-5986
Photo of Josephine Kuhl, MD, Psychiatrist
Josephine Kuhl
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
I work with people of all ages and from all walks of life. Most come because they have the sense that something in their life isn't working. They want to feel better and I want to help them. During our first visits we will get to know each other and talk about why you came in. We will start to determine your personal goals and the different treatment options available to you. I see patients in my private office, in a nonthreatening environment, with complete confidentiality. I want people to feel comfortable and safe in my office, even if it it their first experience with a psychiatrist.
I work with people of all ages and from all walks of life. Most come because they have the sense that something in their life isn't working. They want to feel better and I want to help them. During our first visits we will get to know each other and talk about why you came in. We will start to determine your personal goals and the different treatment options available to you. I see patients in my private office, in a nonthreatening environment, with complete confidentiality. I want people to feel comfortable and safe in my office, even if it it their first experience with a psychiatrist.
(914) 825-4335 View (914) 825-4335
Photo of Anna Filova, Psychiatrist
Anna Filova
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
I am an adult psychiatrist with many years of experience. After working in inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs for almost 15 years, I have chosen to focus on my private practice, where I can make a personal difference in the lives of my patients. I do not believe in medication-only treatment. I feel that each of my patients has very unique issues and problems, and needs to be treated as an individual, without one-size-fits-all solutions. I focus on getting to know my patients and creating an individualized treatment plan.
I am an adult psychiatrist with many years of experience. After working in inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs for almost 15 years, I have chosen to focus on my private practice, where I can make a personal difference in the lives of my patients. I do not believe in medication-only treatment. I feel that each of my patients has very unique issues and problems, and needs to be treated as an individual, without one-size-fits-all solutions. I focus on getting to know my patients and creating an individualized treatment plan.
(646) 681-5720 View (646) 681-5720
Photo of Grace Onovo, PhD, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Grace Onovo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
Grace Onovo is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 22 years of experience - 6 of those years are devoted to psychiatric care. She spent 16 years treating patients with Substance-Use Disorders and mental illnesses. She specializes in Medication Management and Medication Assisted Treatment (Suboxone). She assesses, diagnoses and treats adults and children with sleep disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD and much more. She offers Individual, Group, Family, and Support Therapies in addition to Motivational Interview Therapy.
Grace Onovo is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with 22 years of experience - 6 of those years are devoted to psychiatric care. She spent 16 years treating patients with Substance-Use Disorders and mental illnesses. She specializes in Medication Management and Medication Assisted Treatment (Suboxone). She assesses, diagnoses and treats adults and children with sleep disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD and much more. She offers Individual, Group, Family, and Support Therapies in addition to Motivational Interview Therapy.
(914) 279-3463 View (914) 279-3463
Photo of Jessica Eisenberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Jessica Eisenberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a double board certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in New York. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to feel better understood as individuals, reach their personal goals, and forge more meaningful relationships. To accomplish this, I approach my patients with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize integrated and holistic methods of treatment. I’m trained in various modalities of evidenced based psychotherapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic psychotherapy. When the need arises, I also prescribe medication to enhance treatment.
I am a double board certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in New York. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to feel better understood as individuals, reach their personal goals, and forge more meaningful relationships. To accomplish this, I approach my patients with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize integrated and holistic methods of treatment. I’m trained in various modalities of evidenced based psychotherapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic psychotherapy. When the need arises, I also prescribe medication to enhance treatment.
(914) 233-3414 View (914) 233-3414
Allison Downer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
My ideal client comes in and while they may not be able to verbalize directly, they are open to the process of working with me in a collaborative way to present what is going on in their lives currently. They will also have an idea of what their goals are or we can work together to define them. My ideal client recognizes that we are a team and that I am not there to merely give orders but to work as a team in implementing a plan moving forward. There are patients that come in because their prescriber has retired or relocated-of course that has its own management plan.
My ideal client comes in and while they may not be able to verbalize directly, they are open to the process of working with me in a collaborative way to present what is going on in their lives currently. They will also have an idea of what their goals are or we can work together to define them. My ideal client recognizes that we are a team and that I am not there to merely give orders but to work as a team in implementing a plan moving forward. There are patients that come in because their prescriber has retired or relocated-of course that has its own management plan.
(914) 499-0137 View (914) 499-0137

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Christopher J. Weber, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christopher J. Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide mental health care via telehealth to adult clients located in New York State with medication management needs.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide mental health care via telehealth to adult clients located in New York State with medication management needs.
(518) 240-3924 View (518) 240-3924
Photo of Stephanie English, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, psychologist, and life coach with over 30 years of experience. I work with clients who live in New York State, are between the ages of 18 and 60, and are considering medication to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, or attention deficits. I work with ALL clients and am particularly a good fit for those who are considering medication for the first time OR whose first experience with medication was less than ideal. Once stable, I offer coaching to improve your thinking, habits, and lifestyle to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve your overall well-being.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, psychologist, and life coach with over 30 years of experience. I work with clients who live in New York State, are between the ages of 18 and 60, and are considering medication to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, or attention deficits. I work with ALL clients and am particularly a good fit for those who are considering medication for the first time OR whose first experience with medication was less than ideal. Once stable, I offer coaching to improve your thinking, habits, and lifestyle to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve your overall well-being.
(347) 690-7245 View (347) 690-7245

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10528

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 10528 who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Anxiety
78% Medication Management
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% ADHD
67% Bipolar Disorder
61% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 10528 see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10528?

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.