Psychiatrists in 10580
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.
![Photo of Dr. Alexandra Kreitman, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc623313-589b-4faf-b7a1-72b33018459e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York with experience in treating children/adolescents and adults. She completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice at one of the nation's leading institutes, Columbia University School of Nursing and received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from NYU. Her approach toward mental health is holistic and integrative, with a focus on biological, psychological, and sociological factors that contribute to mental health and wellness.
Alexandra is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York with experience in treating children/adolescents and adults. She completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice at one of the nation's leading institutes, Columbia University School of Nursing and received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from NYU. Her approach toward mental health is holistic and integrative, with a focus on biological, psychological, and sociological factors that contribute to mental health and wellness.
![Photo of Juan A. Rivolta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0d5c634-bffd-4afa-b085-87df5a893ae2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Juan Rivolta, MD, PLLC is a Child and Adult Psychiatry Private Practice, with the ultimate goal of providing patients the time and attention they need. I am Board-Certified in both Child and Adult Psychiatry. I completed my general psychiatry residency at BronxCare/Mount Sinai, and my Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Westchester Medical Center/New York Medical College. The practice focuses on supportive/psychodynamic psychotherapy and medication management to help children and adults suffering from different psychiatric disorders.
Juan Rivolta, MD, PLLC is a Child and Adult Psychiatry Private Practice, with the ultimate goal of providing patients the time and attention they need. I am Board-Certified in both Child and Adult Psychiatry. I completed my general psychiatry residency at BronxCare/Mount Sinai, and my Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Westchester Medical Center/New York Medical College. The practice focuses on supportive/psychodynamic psychotherapy and medication management to help children and adults suffering from different psychiatric disorders.
![Photo of Jessica Nowillo, DO, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4db52102-a2b1-46ff-96a8-1b1ae3c76110/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment. I have a special interest in women's mental health issues that include mood disorders related to menstruation, pregnancy and postpartum, as well as menopause and other life transitions. I enjoy providing comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric treatment that may include psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication when appropriate. I am happy to coordinate with other treatment providers as necessary.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatment. I have a special interest in women's mental health issues that include mood disorders related to menstruation, pregnancy and postpartum, as well as menopause and other life transitions. I enjoy providing comprehensive and compassionate psychiatric treatment that may include psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication when appropriate. I am happy to coordinate with other treatment providers as necessary.
![Photo of Christopher S. Aloezos - Christopher S. Aloezos, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21725593-d839-45b4-bfea-fe1698fe2d9a/4/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Parinda Parikh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c37abbc-c8fd-4ac7-afad-5f073e3fb219/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trained in clinical and administrative skills, Dr. Parikh worked as a faculty at NYPH in Westchester since 2002. She had been the Chief of Eating disorder, treating inpatient and outpatient child, adolescent and adults. Her expertise has resulted in book chapters and few publications. She is now in full time, outpatient practice offering concierge medicine, 24/7 access to clinicians while offering integrative and holistic individualized psychiatric treatment. With goals of bridging gap between inpatient and weekly outpatient, We now offer a comprehensive approach to psychiatric treatment.
Trained in clinical and administrative skills, Dr. Parikh worked as a faculty at NYPH in Westchester since 2002. She had been the Chief of Eating disorder, treating inpatient and outpatient child, adolescent and adults. Her expertise has resulted in book chapters and few publications. She is now in full time, outpatient practice offering concierge medicine, 24/7 access to clinicians while offering integrative and holistic individualized psychiatric treatment. With goals of bridging gap between inpatient and weekly outpatient, We now offer a comprehensive approach to psychiatric treatment.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety.
My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety.
My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
![Photo of Karen G. Gennaro, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44fd2b90-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jeffrey P Kahn, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43987716-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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).
We specialize in cases where traditional methods fall short. Our focus is using MeRT (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy), a safe, gentle, non-invasive and personalized treatment which is FDA-approved and insurance reimbursed (depression). It has demonstrated remarkable success in modulating neural activity and promoting neuroplasticity, particularly in treatment-resistant conditions. Notably, MeRT employs Dry-Lead EEG technology to guide treatment, allowing us to tailor interventions with unprecedented speed and precision based on each patient's unique brain activity.
We specialize in cases where traditional methods fall short. Our focus is using MeRT (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy), a safe, gentle, non-invasive and personalized treatment which is FDA-approved and insurance reimbursed (depression). It has demonstrated remarkable success in modulating neural activity and promoting neuroplasticity, particularly in treatment-resistant conditions. Notably, MeRT employs Dry-Lead EEG technology to guide treatment, allowing us to tailor interventions with unprecedented speed and precision based on each patient's unique brain activity.
![Photo of Dr. Becky Jordan - Founder, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49d0a3ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Becky Jordan - Founder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
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.
![Photo of Tamisha Kelly, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bdb7624-846b-475d-9c2a-adf53cad1076/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tamisha Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Tamisha and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with a Masters of Science from SUNY Stony Brook University. My specializations includes Anxiety, Depression and ADHD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Tamisha and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with a Masters of Science from SUNY Stony Brook University. My specializations includes Anxiety, Depression and ADHD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
![Photo of Margaret Miller, DNP, LMSW, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0d342d8-76da-4956-9437-17a4702a175e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Miller DNP treats individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD and ADHD. If you are struggling with a mood disorder or chronic inattention impacting work and relationships Dr. Miller will tailor treatment holistically and individually to your needs. Integrating an understanding of your lifestyle and needs into your treatment allows Dr. Miller to treat you as a whole person, understanding your symptoms in the context of your life.
Dr. Miller DNP treats individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PTSD and ADHD. If you are struggling with a mood disorder or chronic inattention impacting work and relationships Dr. Miller will tailor treatment holistically and individually to your needs. Integrating an understanding of your lifestyle and needs into your treatment allows Dr. Miller to treat you as a whole person, understanding your symptoms in the context of your life.
![Photo of Edisa Korac, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92bab3f-3775-4fe1-abc6-684525bd348a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edisa Korac is a Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BA in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude), a BSN in Nursing (Magna Cum Laude), and an MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Magna Cum Laude) from Hunter College. As a health professional for over 7 years, Edisa has seen so much suffering but has also seen the natural human propensity to veer towards hope. Hope keeps us all going and it's the driving force behind why she is where she is today. Edisa can empathize with clients and instill hope with her holistic view of health.
Edisa Korac is a Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BA in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude), a BSN in Nursing (Magna Cum Laude), and an MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Magna Cum Laude) from Hunter College. As a health professional for over 7 years, Edisa has seen so much suffering but has also seen the natural human propensity to veer towards hope. Hope keeps us all going and it's the driving force behind why she is where she is today. Edisa can empathize with clients and instill hope with her holistic view of health.
![Photo of Arjun Viswanathan, PMHNPBC, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d84b136-aefe-49b4-80dd-71bcf3dd59a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arjun Viswanathan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
What you'll quickly learn is that I am a strong patient advocate! My ideal patient values a compassionate, individualized approach to mental health and is committed to understanding themselves and their journey. They aim to regain control, build resilience, and enhance their well-being, recognizing the importance of recharging, restoring, and rebounding. They value the connection between mind and body for long-term success and appreciate personalized care that meets them where they are, respects their journey, and strengthens their inherent strengths, all while working towards a sustainable future vision. They feel empowered after!
What you'll quickly learn is that I am a strong patient advocate! My ideal patient values a compassionate, individualized approach to mental health and is committed to understanding themselves and their journey. They aim to regain control, build resilience, and enhance their well-being, recognizing the importance of recharging, restoring, and rebounding. They value the connection between mind and body for long-term success and appreciate personalized care that meets them where they are, respects their journey, and strengthens their inherent strengths, all while working towards a sustainable future vision. They feel empowered after!
![Photo of Tara Eyma, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57c47ab4-ffb9-473d-8581-85122471d6d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Eyma is a board certified psychiatrist licensed to practice in both New York and Connecticut. She is a graduate of the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education/City College of New York (a combined BS/MD program) and obtained her medical degree from Albany Medical College. She has been a staff psychiatrist at Montefiore Medical Center and Yale New Haven Hospital. She has a particular interest in cross-cultural psychiatry and global mental health. She spent two years working in a mental health clinic in the Wellington region of New Zealand providing care to a diverse patient population including Maori and Pasifika people.
Dr. Eyma is a board certified psychiatrist licensed to practice in both New York and Connecticut. She is a graduate of the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education/City College of New York (a combined BS/MD program) and obtained her medical degree from Albany Medical College. She has been a staff psychiatrist at Montefiore Medical Center and Yale New Haven Hospital. She has a particular interest in cross-cultural psychiatry and global mental health. She spent two years working in a mental health clinic in the Wellington region of New Zealand providing care to a diverse patient population including Maori and Pasifika people.
![Photo of Hallie Knopf, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0f0c820-6510-4ec0-9126-2fc9df56a9d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hallie Knopf is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Knopf completed her undergraduate studies at Washington University in St. Louis and received her medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. She completed an adult psychiatry residency training program at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Knopf specializes in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, which includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual symptoms.
Dr. Hallie Knopf is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Knopf completed her undergraduate studies at Washington University in St. Louis and received her medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. She completed an adult psychiatry residency training program at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Knopf specializes in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, which includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual symptoms.
![Photo of David L. Lopez - Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac28735f-20c4-44cf-b49b-c896afc07185/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty
Verified Verified
Rye, NY 10580
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
![Photo of John A. Zagat, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a6a3be2-fa1d-4958-a319-f5754c915dd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kelli Hamilton, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b231da96-a959-466d-ab0e-60202bd6b1de/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Rye, NY 10580 (Online Only)
I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health emphasizing care of the mind and body. As a provider who is board certified in psychiatric mental health and primary care, I am equipped to partner with my clients to meet their psychological and medical needs with an open mind. I recognize the profound impact that mental health has on physical health, as well as the physical health impact on mental health. I partner with clients using psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based pharmacology. In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.
I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health emphasizing care of the mind and body. As a provider who is board certified in psychiatric mental health and primary care, I am equipped to partner with my clients to meet their psychological and medical needs with an open mind. I recognize the profound impact that mental health has on physical health, as well as the physical health impact on mental health. I partner with clients using psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based pharmacology. In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.
See more therapy options for 10580
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 10580
20+
Average cost per session
$265
Psychiatrists in 10580 who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in 10580 see their clients
88% | In Person and Online | |
12% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
55% | Female | |
45% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 10580?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.