Psychiatrists in 10580

Photo of Dr. Erica Strother Dnp, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Dr. Erica Strother Dnp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Dr. Erica Strother, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, founder of Elysian Health & Wellness. My passion is empowering you to achieve your best self, mentally, emotionally, and physically. I provide personalized, evidence-based support for adolescents, adults, and seniors, helping you manage anxiety, depression, burnout, stress management and college and graduate school mental health. Services include medication management, talk therapy, disease prevention, and health promotion. Weight loss and hormone replacement therapy for men and women coming soon! Let’s work together to build a healthier, happier you, one conversation at a time.
Hi, I'm Dr. Erica Strother, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, founder of Elysian Health & Wellness. My passion is empowering you to achieve your best self, mentally, emotionally, and physically. I provide personalized, evidence-based support for adolescents, adults, and seniors, helping you manage anxiety, depression, burnout, stress management and college and graduate school mental health. Services include medication management, talk therapy, disease prevention, and health promotion. Weight loss and hormone replacement therapy for men and women coming soon! Let’s work together to build a healthier, happier you, one conversation at a time.
(914) 647-4518 View (914) 647-4518
Allison Downer
Psychiatrist, MD
Rye, NY 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.
(914) 499-0137 View (914) 499-0137
Photo of Jessica Nowillo, Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
Jessica Nowillo
Psychiatrist, DO, FAPA
1 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
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.
(914) 334-6127 View (914) 334-6127
Photo of Juan A. Rivolta, Psychiatrist, MD
Juan A. Rivolta
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
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.
(914) 279-8822 View (914) 279-8822
Photo of Hallie Knopf, Psychiatrist, MD
Hallie Knopf
Psychiatrist, MD
Rye, NY 10580
Dr. Hallie Knopf is a board certified adult psychiatrist licensed in NY and CT. 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. Knopf provides treatment for people suffering from mood and anxiety disorders related to different reproductive situations through medication management and psychotherapy. She also provides perinatal psychiatric consultations for women treated by other providers.
Dr. Hallie Knopf is a board certified adult psychiatrist licensed in NY and CT. 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. Knopf provides treatment for people suffering from mood and anxiety disorders related to different reproductive situations through medication management and psychotherapy. She also provides perinatal psychiatric consultations for women treated by other providers.
(516) 961-1171 View (516) 961-1171
Photo of Christopher S. Aloezos - Christopher S. Aloezos, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Christopher S. Aloezos, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
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 Ariela Frieder, Psychiatrist, MD
Ariela Frieder
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
Dr. Frieder is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in women’s mental health. This includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. She pursued a residency in OBGYN in Argentina, and a residency in Adult Psychiatry and Fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in The Bronx, NY. Dr. Frieder worked and taught at Montefiore Medical Group and at Zucker Hillside Hospital where she served as the Physician in Charge of the Perinatal Program.
Dr. Frieder is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in women’s mental health. This includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. She pursued a residency in OBGYN in Argentina, and a residency in Adult Psychiatry and Fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in The Bronx, NY. Dr. Frieder worked and taught at Montefiore Medical Group and at Zucker Hillside Hospital where she served as the Physician in Charge of the Perinatal Program.
(516) 548-2495 View (516) 548-2495
Photo of Arashinder Dhaliwal, Psychiatrist, MD
Arashinder Dhaliwal
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Arashinder Dhaliwal has 10+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. He believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. He partners with his patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy. He has special interest in anxiety, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, first break psychosis, trauma associated mental health disorders and ADHD.
Arashinder Dhaliwal has 10+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. He believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. He partners with his patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy. He has special interest in anxiety, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, first break psychosis, trauma associated mental health disorders and ADHD.
(914) 928-2138 View (914) 928-2138
Photo of Veda Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, NPP, APRN
Veda Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, NPP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Veda Tyson is a licensed and board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Veda has extensive training and experience with a range of evidence-based CBT interventions. Veda has worked in a number of clinical settings including outpatient clinics, inpatient settings, school-based health care, medical homes, and in a private practice setting. In addition to psychiatric evaluations and medication management, Veda has expertise providing individual therapy and parent training including Parent Management Training (PMT).
Veda Tyson is a licensed and board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Veda has extensive training and experience with a range of evidence-based CBT interventions. Veda has worked in a number of clinical settings including outpatient clinics, inpatient settings, school-based health care, medical homes, and in a private practice setting. In addition to psychiatric evaluations and medication management, Veda has expertise providing individual therapy and parent training including Parent Management Training (PMT).
(929) 533-2038 View (929) 533-2038
Photo of Tara Eyma, Psychiatrist, MD
Tara Eyma
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(914) 353-4807 View (914) 353-4807
Photo of Kristen Nygren, Psychiatrist, MD
Kristen Nygren
Psychiatrist, MD
13 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults navigating mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions. Many of my patients are seeking clarity, stability, and a sense of control. My goal is to offer thoughtful, collaborative care—whether through medication, supportive discussion, or coordination with your therapist. With over 25 years of experience, I strive to create a respectful, grounded space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to move forward.
I work with adults navigating mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions. Many of my patients are seeking clarity, stability, and a sense of control. My goal is to offer thoughtful, collaborative care—whether through medication, supportive discussion, or coordination with your therapist. With over 25 years of experience, I strive to create a respectful, grounded space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to move forward.
(516) 689-6732 View (516) 689-6732
Photo of Sheenu Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sheenu Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to adults 18 and older who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, and OCD. I take a personalized approach that blends medication management with supportive lifestyle and behavioral strategies. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your journey toward mental wellness.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to adults 18 and older who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, and OCD. I take a personalized approach that blends medication management with supportive lifestyle and behavioral strategies. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered in your journey toward mental wellness.
(929) 447-0174 View (929) 447-0174
Photo of Karen G. Gennaro, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Karen G. Gennaro
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Serves Area
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 Kelli Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kelli Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
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.
(347) 707-7735 View (347) 707-7735
Brittany Dudas
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
(917) 725-5165 View (917) 725-5165
Photo of John A. Zagat - New York Psychiatry + Therapy PC, Psychiatrist, MD
New York Psychiatry + Therapy PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
We have a great team on staff including John Zagat, M.D., Sophia Mason, PhD, RN, Jennifer Barresi, RN, and Scott Palyo, M.D. We offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management, individual and group therapy and psychological testing in New York. John Zagat is a board-certified psychiatrist working in private practice and is licensed in NY, PA, CT and NJ. He is affiliated with NYU Child Study Center as an Adjunct Faculty Member, and he is a volunteer faculty member at New York Medical College.
We have a great team on staff including John Zagat, M.D., Sophia Mason, PhD, RN, Jennifer Barresi, RN, and Scott Palyo, M.D. We offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management, individual and group therapy and psychological testing in New York. John Zagat is a board-certified psychiatrist working in private practice and is licensed in NY, PA, CT and NJ. He is affiliated with NYU Child Study Center as an Adjunct Faculty Member, and he is a volunteer faculty member at New York Medical College.
(212) 301-0517 View (212) 301-0517
Photo of Margaret Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, LMSW, MSN
Margaret Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, LMSW, MSN
Serves Area
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.
(888) 334-2500 View (888) 334-2500
Photo of Tobias Halene - NeuroSynchrony Health, Psychiatrist, MD
NeuroSynchrony Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
We go beyond conventional treatment approaches. Our difference lies in combining comprehensive psychological evaluation with advanced EEG analysis to create a precise map of your specific needs and how your brain functions. This unique insight guides your truly personalized treatment plan, featuring: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) protocols, Cognitive Remediation, and Comprehensive psychiatric care (including medication management). Experience compassionate support, cutting-edge technology, and a clear path to restored quality of life and lasting hope.
We go beyond conventional treatment approaches. Our difference lies in combining comprehensive psychological evaluation with advanced EEG analysis to create a precise map of your specific needs and how your brain functions. This unique insight guides your truly personalized treatment plan, featuring: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) protocols, Cognitive Remediation, and Comprehensive psychiatric care (including medication management). Experience compassionate support, cutting-edge technology, and a clear path to restored quality of life and lasting hope.
(475) 244-9174 View (475) 244-9174
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 Dr. Tara Eyma - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(914) 653-7577 View (914) 653-7577

See more therapy options for 10580

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10580

30+

Average cost per session

$272

Psychiatrists in 10580 who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
73% Bipolar Disorder
73% Medication Management
67% ADHD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Grief

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
79% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 10580 see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% 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.

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.