Psychiatrists in 10595

Photo of Shakeeb Hussain, Psychiatrist, MD
Shakeeb Hussain
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Valhalla, NY 10595
I work with a collaborative group of providers at Clearwave Psychiatry where we provide in-person appointments as well as telehealth appointments. Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
I work with a collaborative group of providers at Clearwave Psychiatry where we provide in-person appointments as well as telehealth appointments. Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
(914) 825-4271 View (914) 825-4271
Photo of Jesse Bastiaens, Psychiatrist, MD
Jesse Bastiaens
Psychiatrist, MD
Valhalla, NY 10595
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
(415) 666-2989 View (415) 666-2989
Photo of Iris A. Grett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Iris A. Grett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
1 Endorsed
Valhalla, NY 10595
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I attended SUNY Delhi University receiving a BSN and then obtained a second masters degree from Sage University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with many different groups of patients that have dealt with depression, anxiety, OCD, and many other mental states. In my therapy and medication management, I utilize my philosophy of empathy, individual worth, ethics and diplomacy to make a positive difference with my patients.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I attended SUNY Delhi University receiving a BSN and then obtained a second masters degree from Sage University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with many different groups of patients that have dealt with depression, anxiety, OCD, and many other mental states. In my therapy and medication management, I utilize my philosophy of empathy, individual worth, ethics and diplomacy to make a positive difference with my patients.
(845) 671-3551 View (845) 671-3551
Photo of Jennifer Hoben, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Jennifer Hoben
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Valhalla, NY 10595
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
(845) 493-2585 View (845) 493-2585
Photo of Judi Siebold, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Judi Siebold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Valhalla, NY 10595
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
(845) 412-9232 View (845) 412-9232
Photo of Geoffrey Friedlander, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Geoffrey Friedlander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Valhalla, NY 10595
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, neurofeedback, psychotherapy, Spravato (esketamine), and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time, and care to each of our patients
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, neurofeedback, psychotherapy, Spravato (esketamine), and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time, and care to each of our patients
(845) 284-9511 View (845) 284-9511
Photo of Sifat Ameen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP
Sifat Ameen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NP
Serves Area
Sifat Ameen is a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is dedicated about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing medications if indicated, for young adults and adult population. Her ongoing areas of interest include integrating nutrition, physical movement and improved sleep practices as foundations and multi-level response for care. This provider does not prescribe controlled substances. Prior to joining LifeStance health, Sifat has 7+ years' experience at inpatient hospital, detox/rehabilitation and residential outpatient setting.
Sifat Ameen is a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is dedicated about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing medications if indicated, for young adults and adult population. Her ongoing areas of interest include integrating nutrition, physical movement and improved sleep practices as foundations and multi-level response for care. This provider does not prescribe controlled substances. Prior to joining LifeStance health, Sifat has 7+ years' experience at inpatient hospital, detox/rehabilitation and residential outpatient setting.
(914) 252-3894 View (914) 252-3894
Photo of Ugo Oji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Ugo Oji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Ugo Oji is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New York who focuses on helping adult clients heal from mental health conditions by providing medication management with supportive, solution-focused therapies. She obtained her MSN from Pace University and her BSN from Dominican College, and she uses her knowledge of evidence-based medicine, holistic care, and the intricacies of the human experience to guide her patients through personalized recovery. She enjoys getting to know her clients and building relationships that can best serve the needs of the people she treats.
Ugo Oji is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New York who focuses on helping adult clients heal from mental health conditions by providing medication management with supportive, solution-focused therapies. She obtained her MSN from Pace University and her BSN from Dominican College, and she uses her knowledge of evidence-based medicine, holistic care, and the intricacies of the human experience to guide her patients through personalized recovery. She enjoys getting to know her clients and building relationships that can best serve the needs of the people she treats.
(914) 540-8285 View (914) 540-8285
Photo of Joseph Rivera - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
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) 256-2394 View (914) 256-2394
Photo of Nikesha Abdool, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, NP
Nikesha Abdool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, NP
Serves Area
This provider does not prescribe controlled substances.
This provider does not prescribe controlled substances.
(914) 292-3361 View (914) 292-3361
Photo of Joseph Rivera, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Joseph Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Joseph Rivera is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New York who specializes in the treatment of adults 18 and older. Joseph uses empathy, clinical experience, and evidence-based practice guidelines to ensure each patient receives the appropriate personalized care. Joseph provides medication management with supportive mindfulness- and solution-focused therapy for the treatment of several common mental health concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and PTSD.
Joseph Rivera is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in New York who specializes in the treatment of adults 18 and older. Joseph uses empathy, clinical experience, and evidence-based practice guidelines to ensure each patient receives the appropriate personalized care. Joseph provides medication management with supportive mindfulness- and solution-focused therapy for the treatment of several common mental health concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and PTSD.
(914) 293-4556 View (914) 293-4556
Photo of Maureen B Doyle, Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, PMHCNS-, CARN, CNE
Maureen B Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, PMHCNS-, CARN, CNE
Online Only
I am currently accepting new clients. MY FORTE IS TALK THERAPY. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE! Hope for relief from pain and dreams of becoming one's best self require an empathic foundation of trust. Imagine that you are harnessing your intuitive power to change. If you would welcome a companion-guide on such a journey, contact me, I'll do my best to help. Extensive experience as an Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse in both direct clinical practice and teaching in academic and clinical settings, provides a secure base of wisdom and evidence that informs my practice.
I am currently accepting new clients. MY FORTE IS TALK THERAPY. I DO NOT PRESCRIBE! Hope for relief from pain and dreams of becoming one's best self require an empathic foundation of trust. Imagine that you are harnessing your intuitive power to change. If you would welcome a companion-guide on such a journey, contact me, I'll do my best to help. Extensive experience as an Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse in both direct clinical practice and teaching in academic and clinical settings, provides a secure base of wisdom and evidence that informs my practice.
(914) 229-9268 View (914) 229-9268
Photo of Janice Hesler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RNC, MSN, CNM, PMHNP
Janice Hesler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RNC, MSN, CNM, PMHNP
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients from anywhere in NY, IA, WA, AK for telepsychiatry only. I have day, evening and weekend appointments available. My practice is focused on medication management for adults . My background is as an RN for 26 years, focusing in Women's Health, prior to becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 2008 working in settings across the country I would love to explore your story with you to determine the best way to get you feeling your best by looking at the big picture and then utilizing medications and various other forms of support.
I am currently accepting new patients from anywhere in NY, IA, WA, AK for telepsychiatry only. I have day, evening and weekend appointments available. My practice is focused on medication management for adults . My background is as an RN for 26 years, focusing in Women's Health, prior to becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in 2008 working in settings across the country I would love to explore your story with you to determine the best way to get you feeling your best by looking at the big picture and then utilizing medications and various other forms of support.
(518) 351-2149 View (518) 351-2149
Photo of Shauna Roach - Shauna Roach Psychiatric NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Shauna Roach Psychiatric NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
One size does not fit all especially when it comes to your mental health, I am sure you will agree. You not only want expert care, but you want to feel as though your concerns are validated. You want to feel empowered to move to the next step with someone who is consistent and cares about you. I want to be your accountability partner on your journey to recovery. In addition to managing your medication management, I offer brief psychotherapy to support your medication management regimen. I want to also give you a prescription for lifestyle changes to improve your mental health.
One size does not fit all especially when it comes to your mental health, I am sure you will agree. You not only want expert care, but you want to feel as though your concerns are validated. You want to feel empowered to move to the next step with someone who is consistent and cares about you. I want to be your accountability partner on your journey to recovery. In addition to managing your medication management, I offer brief psychotherapy to support your medication management regimen. I want to also give you a prescription for lifestyle changes to improve your mental health.
(845) 516-9641 View (845) 516-9641
Photo of Stephanie Verdeflor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Stephanie Verdeflor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Let’s be real, life’s a lot. You’ve been holding it together for everyone else while running on fumes. You’re tired of pretending you’re “fine.” I get it. I help adults and young professionals who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck find balance and direction again. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I combine therapy and medication management in one place so you don’t have to choose between talking and treatment. Together we’ll figure out what’s working, what’s not, and what actually helps you feel better.
Let’s be real, life’s a lot. You’ve been holding it together for everyone else while running on fumes. You’re tired of pretending you’re “fine.” I get it. I help adults and young professionals who feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck find balance and direction again. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I combine therapy and medication management in one place so you don’t have to choose between talking and treatment. Together we’ll figure out what’s working, what’s not, and what actually helps you feel better.
(929) 416-0097 View (929) 416-0097

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Oluseun Ofuje Ajayi - Connected Minds, Psychiatrist, MD
Connected Minds
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Connected Minds is currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person appointments! We are a mental health wellness clinic licensed in the state of Georgia, California, and New York (accepting California and New York clients for virtual medication visits only). We have a particular interest in working with adults and high profile clients. However, all referral requests are welcome for review. Allow our team of mental health experts to help you today!
Connected Minds is currently welcoming new clients for virtual and in-person appointments! We are a mental health wellness clinic licensed in the state of Georgia, California, and New York (accepting California and New York clients for virtual medication visits only). We have a particular interest in working with adults and high profile clients. However, all referral requests are welcome for review. Allow our team of mental health experts to help you today!
(678) 383-9532 View (678) 383-9532
Photo of Dr. Zebib K. Abraham, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Zebib K. Abraham
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10024
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. I completed my medical training at Weill Cornell Medical College, and my psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I received additional training in psychodynamic therapy at the New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. I have a wide range of experience in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as personality and trauma-related disorders. My website is zebibkabrahammd . com.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. I completed my medical training at Weill Cornell Medical College, and my psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I received additional training in psychodynamic therapy at the New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. I have a wide range of experience in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as personality and trauma-related disorders. My website is zebibkabrahammd . com.
View
Photo of Erika Marshall, Psychiatrist, MD
Erika Marshall
Psychiatrist, MD
Chappaqua, NY 10514
I am a board certified psychiatrist practicing in Chappaqua, NY in Northern Westchester as well as online. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (medication management) for adults and older adolescents. I treat a wide variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, women's mental health and working with parents of children with special needs.
I am a board certified psychiatrist practicing in Chappaqua, NY in Northern Westchester as well as online. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (medication management) for adults and older adolescents. I treat a wide variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, women's mental health and working with parents of children with special needs.
(914) 864-0966 View (914) 864-0966
Photo of Bryan Yoon, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Bryan Yoon
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
I am a child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist who treats individuals with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My clinical work is grounded in evidence-based treatments supported by over a decade of psychiatric research, including more than 20 peer-reviewed publications. As a researcher, I study how individuals' traits influence intelligence, school performance, and mental health, and how interventions—including mindfulness training, neuromodulation, and medications—can promote positive change. I supervised the Korean translation of the DSM-5, reflecting my deep knowledge of a broad range of psychiatric illnesses.
I am a child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist who treats individuals with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My clinical work is grounded in evidence-based treatments supported by over a decade of psychiatric research, including more than 20 peer-reviewed publications. As a researcher, I study how individuals' traits influence intelligence, school performance, and mental health, and how interventions—including mindfulness training, neuromodulation, and medications—can promote positive change. I supervised the Korean translation of the DSM-5, reflecting my deep knowledge of a broad range of psychiatric illnesses.
(646) 859-0847 View (646) 859-0847
Photo of Joshua Phelps, Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Joshua Phelps
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
New York, NY 10010
I am a former resident at Columbia University and current psychoanalytic candidate at the Columbia University Center for Psychoanalysis. In my small private practice, I focus on mood and anxiety disorders, as well as individuals who are facing problems with relationships, their career, and their sense of self and identity, among other things. I hope that I can help you to become more comfortable in being more fully yourself, and to improve troubling symptoms and behaviors in doing so. I am licensed to practice in NY, and I offer virtual appointments.
I am a former resident at Columbia University and current psychoanalytic candidate at the Columbia University Center for Psychoanalysis. In my small private practice, I focus on mood and anxiety disorders, as well as individuals who are facing problems with relationships, their career, and their sense of self and identity, among other things. I hope that I can help you to become more comfortable in being more fully yourself, and to improve troubling symptoms and behaviors in doing so. I am licensed to practice in NY, and I offer virtual appointments.
(332) 895-7110 View (332) 895-7110

See more therapy options for 10595

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10595

10+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in 10595 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Medication Management
79% Trauma and PTSD
79% Bipolar Disorder
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
79% MVP Health Care

How Psychiatrists in 10595 see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10595?

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.