Psychiatrists in 10543

Photo of Eva Levy, Psychiatrist, MD
Eva Levy
Psychiatrist, MD
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist based in Westchester, New York. My practice is guided by warmth and compassion to further my understanding of my patients. I utilize my training in various psychotherapy modalities and psychopharmacology to craft a personalized treatment plan, as patients may benefit from therapy, medications, or a combination of both.
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist based in Westchester, New York. My practice is guided by warmth and compassion to further my understanding of my patients. I utilize my training in various psychotherapy modalities and psychopharmacology to craft a personalized treatment plan, as patients may benefit from therapy, medications, or a combination of both.
(914) 996-2956 View (914) 996-2956
Photo of Cara Gouldey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Cara Gouldey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
(267) 358-6157 View (267) 358-6157
Photo of Paula Bu, Psychiatrist, MD
Paula Bu
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
(267) 358-6157 View (267) 358-6157
Photo of Jeffrey P Kahn, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey P Kahn
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Jeffrey P. Kahn, MD is a Columbia trained psychiatrist and Full Cornell Professor in Westchester (Scarsdale) and on the Upper West Side. He offers thoughtful psychotherapy, careful medication, and thorough evaluation. This empathic approach helps with relationship, work and career issues - and with anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Thorough evaluation includes attentive listening, detailed history, emotional understanding, clear diagnoses, and best options. Mostly an office psychiatrist, he has studied, written, spoken, and taught on many topics. More then ten years a Top Doctor (New York Magazine, Castle-Connolly Medical).
Jeffrey P. Kahn, MD is a Columbia trained psychiatrist and Full Cornell Professor in Westchester (Scarsdale) and on the Upper West Side. He offers thoughtful psychotherapy, careful medication, and thorough evaluation. This empathic approach helps with relationship, work and career issues - and with anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Thorough evaluation includes attentive listening, detailed history, emotional understanding, clear diagnoses, and best options. Mostly an office psychiatrist, he has studied, written, spoken, and taught on many topics. More then ten years a Top Doctor (New York Magazine, Castle-Connolly Medical).
(914) 610-7316 View (914) 610-7316
Photo of Galit Sharon Marcus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MPH
Galit Sharon Marcus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MPH
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Are personal, school, or business relationships a problem for you? Are you depressed, angry, or anxious? Do you feel different, alone, or like an outsider? Do you have low self esteem? Are there disturbing problems in your life that you struggle to improve? Are you trying to discover who you are? I use a "toolbox" approach using one or more therapeutic techniques based on what you need. I am trained in interpersonal therapy, mindfulness, psychopharmacology, DBT skills, EMDR, and trauma-informed therapy. I am confident that my combination of skills will help if we have a compatible and good rapport together.
Are personal, school, or business relationships a problem for you? Are you depressed, angry, or anxious? Do you feel different, alone, or like an outsider? Do you have low self esteem? Are there disturbing problems in your life that you struggle to improve? Are you trying to discover who you are? I use a "toolbox" approach using one or more therapeutic techniques based on what you need. I am trained in interpersonal therapy, mindfulness, psychopharmacology, DBT skills, EMDR, and trauma-informed therapy. I am confident that my combination of skills will help if we have a compatible and good rapport together.
(914) 268-6113 View (914) 268-6113
Photo of Lisa Turtz, Psychiatrist, MD
Lisa Turtz
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York State, with over 30 years of experience. I have had a private practice in Larchmont, NY since 2016. I was also, a private practitioner, working at two Montefiore Medical groups from April 2008-2022. Prior to that, I worked as a Psychiatrist for HIP for many years from 1990 to April 2008, first at a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic and then at two medical group sites. I enjoyed working as a Psychiatrist in a medical setting, collaborating with primary care physicians, where there is an interface between Psychiatry and Medicine.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York State, with over 30 years of experience. I have had a private practice in Larchmont, NY since 2016. I was also, a private practitioner, working at two Montefiore Medical groups from April 2008-2022. Prior to that, I worked as a Psychiatrist for HIP for many years from 1990 to April 2008, first at a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic and then at two medical group sites. I enjoyed working as a Psychiatrist in a medical setting, collaborating with primary care physicians, where there is an interface between Psychiatry and Medicine.
(914) 825-4472 View (914) 825-4472
Photo of Dana Neal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Dana Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with seven years of combined inpatient psychiatric and medical experience. I earned my MSN from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing and specialize in psychotherapy and medication management.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with seven years of combined inpatient psychiatric and medical experience. I earned my MSN from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing and specialize in psychotherapy and medication management.
(845) 666-3554 View (845) 666-3554

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Natasha Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, NP
Natasha Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, NP
New York, NY 10011
As a dedicated and compassionate nurse practitioner with over 19 years of experience, I am passionate about providing personalized treatment and support to individuals seeking mental health and wellness. My approach is centered around creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, where clients feel empowered to explore their unique path to wellness. I believe in building collaborative relationships with my patients, working together to develop tailored treatment plans that foster active engagement and sustainable progress. Through empathetic listening, education, and evidence-based practice, I aim to inspire hope and resilience.
As a dedicated and compassionate nurse practitioner with over 19 years of experience, I am passionate about providing personalized treatment and support to individuals seeking mental health and wellness. My approach is centered around creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, where clients feel empowered to explore their unique path to wellness. I believe in building collaborative relationships with my patients, working together to develop tailored treatment plans that foster active engagement and sustainable progress. Through empathetic listening, education, and evidence-based practice, I aim to inspire hope and resilience.
(646) 718-0775 View (646) 718-0775
Photo of Sergina Jean, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Sergina Jean
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Online Only
My ideal client is someone managing chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or heart issues, or struggling with weight management. They need a compassionate, holistic approach to their care, seeking guidance on how to integrate lifestyle changes and medication. Their goal is to achieve long-term health improvements, reduce reliance on medication, and feel empowered to make informed health decisions for lasting wellness.
My ideal client is someone managing chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or heart issues, or struggling with weight management. They need a compassionate, holistic approach to their care, seeking guidance on how to integrate lifestyle changes and medication. Their goal is to achieve long-term health improvements, reduce reliance on medication, and feel empowered to make informed health decisions for lasting wellness.
(561) 327-1836 View (561) 327-1836
Photo of Patrick Sassoon, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Patrick Sassoon
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Brooklyn, NY 11217
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
My approach is based on integrative psychiatry, which uses medications, therapy and complementary medicine to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. I address the combined impact of sleep, lifestyle, relationships, nutrition and chronic medical conditions on well-being, and use cutting edge tools like genetic testing to guide personalized treatment with medication and supplements. I consider the patient’s cultural background in my assessments and I can provide treatment in Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian. My goal is to help my patients create lasting changes and build vitality, resilience and purpose in life.
(646) 466-7081 View (646) 466-7081
Photo of Joel Bernanke, Psychiatrist, MD, MSc
Joel Bernanke
Psychiatrist, MD, MSc
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a Cornell and Columbia trained, board certified psychiatrist providing virtual care to teenagers and adults in New York City and State. My individualized, comprehensive treatments include psychotherapy, research-backed complementary and alternative approaches, and medication when needed. I work with people facing personal, academic, and professional challenges, like coping with intense emotions, feeling down, experiencing anxiety or stress, suffering from trauma, having trouble in relationships, or struggling with focus and organization.
I am a Cornell and Columbia trained, board certified psychiatrist providing virtual care to teenagers and adults in New York City and State. My individualized, comprehensive treatments include psychotherapy, research-backed complementary and alternative approaches, and medication when needed. I work with people facing personal, academic, and professional challenges, like coping with intense emotions, feeling down, experiencing anxiety or stress, suffering from trauma, having trouble in relationships, or struggling with focus and organization.
(646) 586-3204 View (646) 586-3204
Photo of Jocelyn Soffer, Psychiatrist, MD
Jocelyn Soffer
Psychiatrist, MD
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
Jocelyn Soffer, M.D. is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in private practice, offering psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment. She received her B.A. in Philosophy from Yale University, and her M.D. from the Yale University School of Medicine. She completed her Adult Psychiatry Internship and Residency at Mount Sinai, serving as chief resident, with Board Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She also completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU, and is now on faculty there as Clinical Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, teaching undergraduates.
Jocelyn Soffer, M.D. is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in private practice, offering psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment. She received her B.A. in Philosophy from Yale University, and her M.D. from the Yale University School of Medicine. She completed her Adult Psychiatry Internship and Residency at Mount Sinai, serving as chief resident, with Board Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She also completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU, and is now on faculty there as Clinical Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, teaching undergraduates.
(917) 540-7935 View (917) 540-7935
Photo of Dr. Siera Kirkland, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Siera Kirkland
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Siera Kirkland is an adult general psychiatrist. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kirkland focuses on collaborative and evidence-based care. She believes it is imperative to form a therapeutic relationship with each individual and work together as a team to formulate the best treatment plan. Her passion is to educate, empower and support. She specializes in medication management and brief psychotherapy.
Dr. Siera Kirkland is an adult general psychiatrist. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kirkland focuses on collaborative and evidence-based care. She believes it is imperative to form a therapeutic relationship with each individual and work together as a team to formulate the best treatment plan. Her passion is to educate, empower and support. She specializes in medication management and brief psychotherapy.
(646) 687-1482 View (646) 687-1482
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Tiell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Stephanie Tiell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10128
I take a holistic, comprehensive approach to person-centered treatment, combining psychotherapy and medication management. My therapeutic style is warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic. I offer individualized therapy including supportive, emotional, goal-setting, and mindfulness approaches. I love providing resources and education to help us work together on all aspects of your wellbeing. As a dually licensed Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing and mental health, I bring over a decade of dedicated experience to your care.
I take a holistic, comprehensive approach to person-centered treatment, combining psychotherapy and medication management. My therapeutic style is warm, non-judgmental, and empathetic. I offer individualized therapy including supportive, emotional, goal-setting, and mindfulness approaches. I love providing resources and education to help us work together on all aspects of your wellbeing. As a dually licensed Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing and mental health, I bring over a decade of dedicated experience to your care.
(646) 692-0364 View (646) 692-0364
Photo of Octavia Ingram, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Octavia Ingram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Many patients present from families that were not educated about mental health. Now through learned behavior the patient learns to suppress their emotions in fear they’ll be viewed as weak or flawed. Let’s work to break the generational stereotypes and achieve overall well being. You’re in the right place because seeking help is usually the most difficult step in your process.
Many patients present from families that were not educated about mental health. Now through learned behavior the patient learns to suppress their emotions in fear they’ll be viewed as weak or flawed. Let’s work to break the generational stereotypes and achieve overall well being. You’re in the right place because seeking help is usually the most difficult step in your process.
(929) 203-8654 View (929) 203-8654
Photo of Shane S Spicer, Psychiatrist, MD
Shane S Spicer
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10016
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who genuinely cares about his clients? A psychiatrist who spends more time with clients than the average psychiatrist? Then you are in the right place. My practice offers an easily accessible Manhattan location and a relaxed environment in which you can receive psychotherapy, medication management, or both, in order to address your unique needs. Services are provided in a comfortable and nonjudgmental climate and we can draw from different psychotherapy theories and treatment models in order to best meet your specific goals.
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who genuinely cares about his clients? A psychiatrist who spends more time with clients than the average psychiatrist? Then you are in the right place. My practice offers an easily accessible Manhattan location and a relaxed environment in which you can receive psychotherapy, medication management, or both, in order to address your unique needs. Services are provided in a comfortable and nonjudgmental climate and we can draw from different psychotherapy theories and treatment models in order to best meet your specific goals.
(646) 600-8231 View (646) 600-8231
Photo of Maria Master, Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Maria Master
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
New York, NY 10001
As a Columbia/Cornell educated psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, I provide state of the art psychiatric evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication management. My goal is to meaningfully enhance the happiness and well-being of each one of my patients. I believe that true emotional health is more than the absence of illness, and includes a sense of optimism and enjoyment in relationships, work/school, and self image.
As a Columbia/Cornell educated psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, I provide state of the art psychiatric evaluation, psychotherapy, and medication management. My goal is to meaningfully enhance the happiness and well-being of each one of my patients. I believe that true emotional health is more than the absence of illness, and includes a sense of optimism and enjoyment in relationships, work/school, and self image.
(646) 699-3914 View (646) 699-3914
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 Renette Casseus-Dametas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC, RN
Renette Casseus-Dametas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC, RN
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a PMHNP with over a decade of experience in mental health; including inpatient, outpatient, and detox care. I currently work with adolescents in a school-based setting, and with adults for a non-profit organization. Based in New York, I am committed to culturally competent care, ethical sensitivity and providing treatment in natural living environments. I enjoy spending time with my family, my dog and hiking.
I am a PMHNP with over a decade of experience in mental health; including inpatient, outpatient, and detox care. I currently work with adolescents in a school-based setting, and with adults for a non-profit organization. Based in New York, I am committed to culturally competent care, ethical sensitivity and providing treatment in natural living environments. I enjoy spending time with my family, my dog and hiking.
(845) 957-9097 View (845) 957-9097
Photo of Elhav Weinstein, Psychiatrist, MD
Elhav Weinstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Elhav Weinstein completed his undergraduate work with honors at Johns Hopkins University and received his medical degree from Columbia University. He completed his internship at University of California, San Francisco and the remainder of his psychiatry training at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Weinstein remained at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital where he worked as an attending psychiatrist in the outpatient department, caring for adults of all ages and with a wide range of psychiatric and psychological concerns.
Dr. Elhav Weinstein completed his undergraduate work with honors at Johns Hopkins University and received his medical degree from Columbia University. He completed his internship at University of California, San Francisco and the remainder of his psychiatry training at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Weinstein remained at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital where he worked as an attending psychiatrist in the outpatient department, caring for adults of all ages and with a wide range of psychiatric and psychological concerns.
(347) 460-0341 View (347) 460-0341

See more therapy options for 10543

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10543

< 10

Psychiatrists in 10543 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
86% Medication Management
86% Stress
71% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in 10543 see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10543?

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.