Psychiatrists in 10605

Photo of Ahmed Bashiru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Ahmed Bashiru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
White Plains, NY 10605
Ahmed Bashiru is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in New York State and based in New York City. He earned his Master's degree in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing from Pace University. Mr. Bashiru has over six years of experience working in mental health care, including practicing at BronxCare Health Systems (Fulton Division). His scope of practice includes psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment, and psychiatric medication management.
Ahmed Bashiru is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in New York State and based in New York City. He earned his Master's degree in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing from Pace University. Mr. Bashiru has over six years of experience working in mental health care, including practicing at BronxCare Health Systems (Fulton Division). His scope of practice includes psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and treatment, and psychiatric medication management.
(845) 448-2341 View (845) 448-2341
Photo of Despina Hatziergati, Psychiatrist, MD
Despina Hatziergati
Psychiatrist, MD
White Plains, NY 10605
Children and adolescents often experience anxiety, ADHD, irritability, mood changes, psychosis. Some conditions are easier to recognize than others, yet always are a great source of concern for the parents. Early diagnosis and evidence based treatments can lead to resolution of symptoms and better outcomes.
Children and adolescents often experience anxiety, ADHD, irritability, mood changes, psychosis. Some conditions are easier to recognize than others, yet always are a great source of concern for the parents. Early diagnosis and evidence based treatments can lead to resolution of symptoms and better outcomes.
(914) 380-4198 View (914) 380-4198
Photo of Mina Oza - 2nd Arc Psychiatric Associates PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
2nd Arc Psychiatric Associates PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10605
Dr. Mina Oza, MD is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over forty six years of experience in the medical field. She has worked extensively in inpatient, outpatient and private practice. She has served as supervisor for therapists, nurses, interns, residents and medical students. She graduated from Lady Hardinge Medical College, University Of Delhi medical school in 1974. She completed her training at the Elmhurst Hospital in NY. Her current areas of interest are child and adolescent psychiatry, peripartum and postpartum and women’s health. She now serves at the Medical Director of 2nd ARC psychiatric associates.
Dr. Mina Oza, MD is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist with over forty six years of experience in the medical field. She has worked extensively in inpatient, outpatient and private practice. She has served as supervisor for therapists, nurses, interns, residents and medical students. She graduated from Lady Hardinge Medical College, University Of Delhi medical school in 1974. She completed her training at the Elmhurst Hospital in NY. Her current areas of interest are child and adolescent psychiatry, peripartum and postpartum and women’s health. She now serves at the Medical Director of 2nd ARC psychiatric associates.
(845) 203-9308 View (845) 203-9308
Photo of Jodie Deignan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MT-BC
Jodie Deignan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MT-BC
2 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10605
Are you or your child currently seeing a therapist you love, but you’ve decided it’s time to think about adding psychiatric medication? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about medication, but you’re worried about having to try several medications before finding one that works? Maybe you're looking for someone who can take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to find the right medication for you or your child? I bet it's important to you that you don't have to change therapists to add medication, as well.
Are you or your child currently seeing a therapist you love, but you’ve decided it’s time to think about adding psychiatric medication? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about medication, but you’re worried about having to try several medications before finding one that works? Maybe you're looking for someone who can take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to find the right medication for you or your child? I bet it's important to you that you don't have to change therapists to add medication, as well.
(914) 216-7550 View (914) 216-7550
Photo of Anita Agyekum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Anita Agyekum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
White Plains, NY 10605
Feeling down, low or sad? Anxious, irritable? Experiencing mood swings, panic attacks? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts or hearing voices? Or you need a provider to hear you out and offer support and guidance to make the day a little better? Ms Agyekum can help you or your loved one manage anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, attention. Ms. Anita Agyekum is a DNP trained dedicated board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Feeling down, low or sad? Anxious, irritable? Experiencing mood swings, panic attacks? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts or hearing voices? Or you need a provider to hear you out and offer support and guidance to make the day a little better? Ms Agyekum can help you or your loved one manage anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, attention. Ms. Anita Agyekum is a DNP trained dedicated board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
(845) 409-0166 View (845) 409-0166
Photo of Leah C Susser, Psychiatrist, MD
Leah C Susser
Psychiatrist, MD
White Plains, NY 10605
I specialize in women's mental health, including helping women who are planning to get pregnant, pregnant, postpartum, with PMS/PMDD or symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, in the perimenopausal period, undergoing infertility treatment, and after perinatal loss. I also help women at any stage of their lives with anxiety, OCD, depression, stress, postpartum psychosis, menstrual psychosis, and bipolar disorder. I offer one-time consultations, medication management, and evidence-based psychotherapy.
I specialize in women's mental health, including helping women who are planning to get pregnant, pregnant, postpartum, with PMS/PMDD or symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, in the perimenopausal period, undergoing infertility treatment, and after perinatal loss. I also help women at any stage of their lives with anxiety, OCD, depression, stress, postpartum psychosis, menstrual psychosis, and bipolar disorder. I offer one-time consultations, medication management, and evidence-based psychotherapy.
(845) 413-2981 View (845) 413-2981
Photo of Jennifer Walsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, WHNP
Jennifer Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, WHNP
2 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10605
Quality mental health care is vital to overall health and well-being. It is important for this care to be personalized and designed around each person’s unique experiences, needs, and priorities. I partner with patients to evaluate mental health concerns and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes education, counseling, medication management, and positive lifestyle change.
Quality mental health care is vital to overall health and well-being. It is important for this care to be personalized and designed around each person’s unique experiences, needs, and priorities. I partner with patients to evaluate mental health concerns and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes education, counseling, medication management, and positive lifestyle change.
(914) 574-4535 View (914) 574-4535
Photo of Edward K Afful, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Edward K Afful
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10605
Feeling down, low or sad? Anxious, irritable? Experiencing mood swings, panic attacks? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts or hearing voices? Or you need a provider to hear you out and offer support and guidance to make the day a little better? Mr Afful can help you or your loved one manage anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, attention-deficit disorders as well as many other mental illnesses. Edward Afful is a Board certified Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in New York State and based in NYC. Mr. Afful has over 10 years experience working in mental health care.
Feeling down, low or sad? Anxious, irritable? Experiencing mood swings, panic attacks? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts or hearing voices? Or you need a provider to hear you out and offer support and guidance to make the day a little better? Mr Afful can help you or your loved one manage anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, attention-deficit disorders as well as many other mental illnesses. Edward Afful is a Board certified Psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), licensed in New York State and based in NYC. Mr. Afful has over 10 years experience working in mental health care.
(914) 350-4238 View (914) 350-4238
Photo of Crystal Persky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
Crystal Persky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGACNP
White Plains, NY 10605
I'm a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult–Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of clinical experience. I began my career in medical settings before transitioning into psychiatric care, where I found a strong sense of purpose working with individuals experiencing mood and anxiety disorders. My background includes working with medically complex patients in hospital-based settings as well as providing outpatient psychiatric care. This experience gives me a broad clinical perspective and helps me consider both physical and mental health in treatment planning.
I'm a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult–Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of clinical experience. I began my career in medical settings before transitioning into psychiatric care, where I found a strong sense of purpose working with individuals experiencing mood and anxiety disorders. My background includes working with medically complex patients in hospital-based settings as well as providing outpatient psychiatric care. This experience gives me a broad clinical perspective and helps me consider both physical and mental health in treatment planning.
(914) 543-7910 View (914) 543-7910
Photo of Veda Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, NPP, APRN
Veda Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, NPP, APRN
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10605
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).
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Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
White Plains, NY 10605
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Dr. Tasia Henderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Tasia Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
White Plains, NY 10605
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences. For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qbtech Testing .
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences. For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qbtech Testing .
(848) 279-0533 View (848) 279-0533
Photo of Parinda Parikh, Psychiatrist, MD
Parinda Parikh
Psychiatrist, MD
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(914) 468-6084 View (914) 468-6084
Photo of Jesse Bastiaens, Psychiatrist, MD
Jesse Bastiaens
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with college students, young adults, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, panic attacks, and other challenges that can interfere with school, work, relationships, and daily life. Many people come to me during times of transition or when they feel stuck despite their best efforts to move forward. My goal is to help you better understand what you're experiencing and develop a personalized, evidence-based treatment plan that supports meaningful and lasting improvement.
I work with college students, young adults, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, panic attacks, and other challenges that can interfere with school, work, relationships, and daily life. Many people come to me during times of transition or when they feel stuck despite their best efforts to move forward. My goal is to help you better understand what you're experiencing and develop a personalized, evidence-based treatment plan that supports meaningful and lasting improvement.
(415) 666-2989 View (415) 666-2989
Photo of Faiq A Hameedi, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Faiq A Hameedi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Serves Area
The Anxiety & Depression Center of Scarsdale is a unique, private psychiatry practice located in lower Westchester County and the Bronx. Dr. Hameedi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the discreet treatment of individuals experiencing mental illness and psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Hameedi understands that each individual is unique and requires a custom-tailored approach to address that person’s needs. Our goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment so that our patients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers which limit their potential.
The Anxiety & Depression Center of Scarsdale is a unique, private psychiatry practice located in lower Westchester County and the Bronx. Dr. Hameedi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the discreet treatment of individuals experiencing mental illness and psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Hameedi understands that each individual is unique and requires a custom-tailored approach to address that person’s needs. Our goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment so that our patients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers which limit their potential.
(914) 574-5390 View (914) 574-5390
Photo of Dr. Becky Jordan - Founder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Becky Jordan - Founder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or not like yourself despite managing everything on the outside? I specialize in women’s mental health, including mood changes, brain fog, low motivation, and sleep disruption during perimenopause and menopause. I also provide general psychiatric care for anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related symptoms. If you’re unsure what’s hormonal, stress-related, or mood-based, I offer clear evaluation and structured treatment. For appropriate patients, in-office ketamine treatment is available for treatment-resistant depression. Request a consultation to determine fit.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or not like yourself despite managing everything on the outside? I specialize in women’s mental health, including mood changes, brain fog, low motivation, and sleep disruption during perimenopause and menopause. I also provide general psychiatric care for anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related symptoms. If you’re unsure what’s hormonal, stress-related, or mood-based, I offer clear evaluation and structured treatment. For appropriate patients, in-office ketamine treatment is available for treatment-resistant depression. Request a consultation to determine fit.
(914) 315-4291 View (914) 315-4291
Photo of Martin Lan, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Martin Lan
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Serves Area
I am an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University. I did my psychiatry residency at Weill Cornell Medical Center and medical school at Duke University. In our initial appointment, I spend time getting to know you, what has been causing difficulty and what you have tried previously. Once I have a better understanding of the problems, we create a treatment plan together. I can provide medication management, psychotherapy or a combination of these depending on what's best for you. I believe treatment is a collaborative process and that empathy and open mindedness are essential to the process.
I am an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University. I did my psychiatry residency at Weill Cornell Medical Center and medical school at Duke University. In our initial appointment, I spend time getting to know you, what has been causing difficulty and what you have tried previously. Once I have a better understanding of the problems, we create a treatment plan together. I can provide medication management, psychotherapy or a combination of these depending on what's best for you. I believe treatment is a collaborative process and that empathy and open mindedness are essential to the process.
(914) 499-0420 View (914) 499-0420
Photo of May Tsui, Psychiatrist, MD
May Tsui
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Feeling anxious, depressed or angry? Do you have self-esteem issues? Are you troubled by past experiences? Do you struggle with school, work or relationships? Psychotherapy can help you make changes to your life.
Feeling anxious, depressed or angry? Do you have self-esteem issues? Are you troubled by past experiences? Do you struggle with school, work or relationships? Psychotherapy can help you make changes to your life.
(646) 600-8110 View (646) 600-8110
Photo of Danielle Hansen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Danielle Hansen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
As a mother of five, I know firsthand that raising children can be both deeply rewarding and incredibly hard. That’s why you will always be met with genuine empathy from someone who understands what it feels like to navigate difficult moments. I care deeply about the best interest of each child while recognizing the important role parents play, and work together to improve emotional well-being, build confidence, and empower young people to thrive. I look forward to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and understanding.
As a mother of five, I know firsthand that raising children can be both deeply rewarding and incredibly hard. That’s why you will always be met with genuine empathy from someone who understands what it feels like to navigate difficult moments. I care deeply about the best interest of each child while recognizing the important role parents play, and work together to improve emotional well-being, build confidence, and empower young people to thrive. I look forward to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and understanding.
(914) 543-5498 View (914) 543-5498
Photo of Kimberly Jackson - Well Space for Women, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C
Well Space for Women
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide thoughtful, personalized psychiatric care for high-functioning women navigating anxiety, ADHD, burnout, and reproductive life transitions. You may appear capable on the outside while privately feeling overwhelmed, scattered, or unlike yourself. With over 30 years of experience, I offer warm, collaborative medication management with expertise in fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, PMDD, and perimenopause—helping you feel clear, balanced, and like yourself again.
I provide thoughtful, personalized psychiatric care for high-functioning women navigating anxiety, ADHD, burnout, and reproductive life transitions. You may appear capable on the outside while privately feeling overwhelmed, scattered, or unlike yourself. With over 30 years of experience, I offer warm, collaborative medication management with expertise in fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, PMDD, and perimenopause—helping you feel clear, balanced, and like yourself again.
(845) 253-4819 View (845) 253-4819

See more therapy options for 10605

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 10605

20+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in 10605 who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
85% Trauma and PTSD
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Bipolar Disorder
77% Medication Management
69% ADHD

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
73% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 10605 see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 10605?

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.