Psychiatrists in 11022

Photo of Joseph Scott Weiner, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Joseph Scott Weiner
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My mission is to make sure that my patients receive the most thoughtful, empathetic and contemporary treatment in a safe, comfortable, and confidential environment. When you call for a consultation, we'll spend a little time talking by phone so we can see if we're a good fit. If we decide to meet, decisions about your care will be made as a team, with you being the most important member. I am devoted to providing attentive care to all my patients. Please explore my website to learn more about my practice and my qualifications: www.weinermd.com
My mission is to make sure that my patients receive the most thoughtful, empathetic and contemporary treatment in a safe, comfortable, and confidential environment. When you call for a consultation, we'll spend a little time talking by phone so we can see if we're a good fit. If we decide to meet, decisions about your care will be made as a team, with you being the most important member. I am devoted to providing attentive care to all my patients. Please explore my website to learn more about my practice and my qualifications: www.weinermd.com
(516) 336-4298 View (516) 336-4298
Photo of Dr. Joette Hoffman - Water Gap Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Water Gap Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
(570) 260-9516 View (570) 260-9516
Photo of Dr. Robert E Feinstein, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Robert E Feinstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My focus is to help you, as a unique person, heal, change, energize, be creative, and optimize your strengths. For a private self pay fee, I can help you achieve this by listening to your concerns; providing a safe space for discussion and innovation, offering in depth psychotherapy with or without medication. I will collaborate with you as we work toward recovery, utilizing evidenced-based strategies and novel solutions for your problems or issues. I am a full fee professional who does NOT take INSurance
My focus is to help you, as a unique person, heal, change, energize, be creative, and optimize your strengths. For a private self pay fee, I can help you achieve this by listening to your concerns; providing a safe space for discussion and innovation, offering in depth psychotherapy with or without medication. I will collaborate with you as we work toward recovery, utilizing evidenced-based strategies and novel solutions for your problems or issues. I am a full fee professional who does NOT take INSurance
(475) 231-3451 View (475) 231-3451

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Sophia Kogan, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sophia Kogan
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I cannot respond to calls. Please reach out via my website sophiakoganmdphd.com. I help women and LGBTQIA+ individuals who experience mood and anxiety disorders related to hormonal changes maintain optimal mental health during family planning, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting years. I provide individualized, comprehensive treatment to parents and professionals struggling with mood and anxiety disorders. I utilize medication, talk therapy and lab testing integrated with natural methods like nutritional medicine and natural supplements to help people live to their full potential.
I cannot respond to calls. Please reach out via my website sophiakoganmdphd.com. I help women and LGBTQIA+ individuals who experience mood and anxiety disorders related to hormonal changes maintain optimal mental health during family planning, pregnancy, postpartum and parenting years. I provide individualized, comprehensive treatment to parents and professionals struggling with mood and anxiety disorders. I utilize medication, talk therapy and lab testing integrated with natural methods like nutritional medicine and natural supplements to help people live to their full potential.
(917) 979-5794 View (917) 979-5794
Photo of Sean X Luo, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Sean X Luo
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
I am a Columbia-trained general and addiction psychiatrist and researcher. My practice focuses on delivering high-quality treatment to a small number of patients. I focus on complex substance use, co-morbid/dual diagnoses cases such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression, and behavioral addictions such as sex/gaming addiction. I conduct both talk therapy and use medications in my practice and work with both patients and their families. The goal is transformative change in behavior patterns to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
I am a Columbia-trained general and addiction psychiatrist and researcher. My practice focuses on delivering high-quality treatment to a small number of patients. I focus on complex substance use, co-morbid/dual diagnoses cases such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression, and behavioral addictions such as sex/gaming addiction. I conduct both talk therapy and use medications in my practice and work with both patients and their families. The goal is transformative change in behavior patterns to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
(718) 650-2189 View (718) 650-2189
Photo of Dayanna Dias, PMHNP, NP-P, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dayanna Dias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Great to meet you! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. My professional experience spans emergency rooms, adult psychiatric inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and eating disorder inpatient and outpatient clinics. I am passionate about providing compassionate, holistic care and work with individuals to address a range of mental health concerns, tailoring treatment to meet their unique needs for healing and well-being.
Great to meet you! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. My professional experience spans emergency rooms, adult psychiatric inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and eating disorder inpatient and outpatient clinics. I am passionate about providing compassionate, holistic care and work with individuals to address a range of mental health concerns, tailoring treatment to meet their unique needs for healing and well-being.
(929) 389-0238 View (929) 389-0238
Photo of Cynthia Goodman, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Goodman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Cynthia and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 48 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Masters of Science in Nursing from Boston University. I specialize in Medication Management, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression and Relationship Issues. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
Hello, my name is Cynthia and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 48 years of nursing experience. I graduated with my Masters of Science in Nursing from Boston University. I specialize in Medication Management, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression and Relationship Issues. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
(518) 241-4556 View (518) 241-4556
Photo of Davonna Wilson - Balance Psychiatric Services, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Online Only
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(646) 480-1941 View (646) 480-1941
Photo of Beverly Bryant, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist
Beverly Bryant
Psychiatrist, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Bryant graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine to complete her adult training and the Yale Child Study Center/Riverview Hospital for Children Program to complete her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. A native Texan, she returned to Tyler, TX in 2020 to accept the position of Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler. She also established an accredited child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship in Tyler.
Dr. Bryant graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine to complete her adult training and the Yale Child Study Center/Riverview Hospital for Children Program to complete her fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. A native Texan, she returned to Tyler, TX in 2020 to accept the position of Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler. She also established an accredited child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship in Tyler.
(917) 634-5311 View (917) 634-5311
Photo of Thomas Maples, MD, Psychiatrist
Thomas Maples
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist located in Union Square. Among many therapeutic goals, I seek to improve emotional wellbeing, strengthen connection with others, and cultivate long-lasting growth and fulfillment. I treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, attentional issues, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related disorders.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist located in Union Square. Among many therapeutic goals, I seek to improve emotional wellbeing, strengthen connection with others, and cultivate long-lasting growth and fulfillment. I treat a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, attentional issues, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related disorders.
(347) 394-5501 View (347) 394-5501
Photo of Catherine M Kim, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine M Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Licensed in New Jersey and New York. Like a tree, our roots are our foundation. They can lead us in many directions and keep us anchored in times of difficulty. Over the course of life, we are faced with storms that may affect our roots, which can then affect our lives tremendously. We desire to give individuals a chance to firmly implant their roots where they were meant to be, leading to healing and lasting change. We want to remind you that you are already en route on your path to wellness. Whether you are looking for healing, restoration, or self-empowerment, we are happy to be part of this journey with you.
Licensed in New Jersey and New York. Like a tree, our roots are our foundation. They can lead us in many directions and keep us anchored in times of difficulty. Over the course of life, we are faced with storms that may affect our roots, which can then affect our lives tremendously. We desire to give individuals a chance to firmly implant their roots where they were meant to be, leading to healing and lasting change. We want to remind you that you are already en route on your path to wellness. Whether you are looking for healing, restoration, or self-empowerment, we are happy to be part of this journey with you.
(201) 582-4585 View (201) 582-4585
Photo of Juliana Kanji, MD, Psychiatrist
Juliana Kanji
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Juliana Kanji is a warm and friendly doctor specializing in child, adolescent, adult and geriatric psychiatric care in Huntington, NY. She is fluent in both English and Hindi. Dr. Kanji achieved her doctorate degree from Khyber Medical College. She went on to complete her internship at Frankford Hospital and later her residency in psychiatry at Albany Medical Center Hospital. Dr. Kanji furthered her experience by completing a fellowship in forensic psychiatry followed by another fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry Dr. Kanji currently serves her patients full-time within a private practice she started in 1995
Juliana Kanji is a warm and friendly doctor specializing in child, adolescent, adult and geriatric psychiatric care in Huntington, NY. She is fluent in both English and Hindi. Dr. Kanji achieved her doctorate degree from Khyber Medical College. She went on to complete her internship at Frankford Hospital and later her residency in psychiatry at Albany Medical Center Hospital. Dr. Kanji furthered her experience by completing a fellowship in forensic psychiatry followed by another fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry Dr. Kanji currently serves her patients full-time within a private practice she started in 1995
(516) 614-5523 View (516) 614-5523
Photo of Romane Melissa Abbensetts, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Romane Melissa Abbensetts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, focused in providing Client Centered Care to adults with various mental health needs. To optimize care, first I will perform a comprehensive mental health assessment, individual psychotherapy and medication management. My objective is to evaluate both your physical and mental health well-being in order to formulate a diagnosis, and develop an invidualized treatment plan; to provide unbiased humane care, and effective treatment for all.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, focused in providing Client Centered Care to adults with various mental health needs. To optimize care, first I will perform a comprehensive mental health assessment, individual psychotherapy and medication management. My objective is to evaluate both your physical and mental health well-being in order to formulate a diagnosis, and develop an invidualized treatment plan; to provide unbiased humane care, and effective treatment for all.
(631) 253-8534 View (631) 253-8534
Kyle Kato
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Many of my clients are dealing with issues regarding attention/focus/organization (ADD/ADHD), mood and anxiety. I start doing a very comprehensive evaluation and then collaboratively create a plan to best help you.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Many of my clients are dealing with issues regarding attention/focus/organization (ADD/ADHD), mood and anxiety. I start doing a very comprehensive evaluation and then collaboratively create a plan to best help you.
(212) 319-1511 View (212) 319-1511
Photo of Joyln Ferrell, MD, Psychiatrist
Joyln Ferrell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Joyln Ferrell is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in providing patient-centered care to treat depression and anxiety disorders. She enjoys working with patients to improve their quality of life and helping them reach their specific treatment goals. She received her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine, and completed her residency training in psychiatry at VA Boston/Harvard Medical School with significant training experiences at McLean Hospital. She additionally completed a fellowship in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research.
Dr. Joyln Ferrell is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in providing patient-centered care to treat depression and anxiety disorders. She enjoys working with patients to improve their quality of life and helping them reach their specific treatment goals. She received her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine, and completed her residency training in psychiatry at VA Boston/Harvard Medical School with significant training experiences at McLean Hospital. She additionally completed a fellowship in psychoanalytic psychotherapy at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research.
(917) 634-5311 View (917) 634-5311
Photo of Salman Abouzied - Empath Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Empath Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Salman Abouzied is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in therapy and psycho-pharmacological treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Substance Recovery, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic/Thought Disorders, Childhood ADHD/ADD, and management of psychiatric symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. A graduate of New York University, Mr. Abouzied has over 15 years of practice working in the field of mental health."
Salman Abouzied is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in therapy and psycho-pharmacological treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Substance Recovery, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic/Thought Disorders, Childhood ADHD/ADD, and management of psychiatric symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. A graduate of New York University, Mr. Abouzied has over 15 years of practice working in the field of mental health."
(929) 547-7486 View (929) 547-7486
Photo of Matthew James Tirelli, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse
Matthew James Tirelli
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
As a Nurse Practitioner, the core of my training was based on seeing a person holistically. In practice, this involves looking at all factors of a person's life, not just the issue that brought them into therapy. Although I am a prescriber, I believe in psychosocial interventions as a first line approach to healing. However, if we collaboratively decide that medications would be helpful, I provide those services as well. Most people have found it helpful to receive therapy and medication management from one person.
As a Nurse Practitioner, the core of my training was based on seeing a person holistically. In practice, this involves looking at all factors of a person's life, not just the issue that brought them into therapy. Although I am a prescriber, I believe in psychosocial interventions as a first line approach to healing. However, if we collaboratively decide that medications would be helpful, I provide those services as well. Most people have found it helpful to receive therapy and medication management from one person.
(347) 744-9481 View (347) 744-9481
Photo of Ian Nnamdi, Physician Assistant
Ian Nnamdi
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725
It’s an honor to be part of your journey toward better mental health. Whether this is your first step in seeking support or you’ve been working on your mental well-being for some time, I’m here to provide compassionate, personalized care to help you feel more balanced, focused, and fulfilled. Together, we’ll address all aspects of your well-being - mental, emotional, social, and even spiritual - tailored to your unique needs.
It’s an honor to be part of your journey toward better mental health. Whether this is your first step in seeking support or you’ve been working on your mental well-being for some time, I’m here to provide compassionate, personalized care to help you feel more balanced, focused, and fulfilled. Together, we’ll address all aspects of your well-being - mental, emotional, social, and even spiritual - tailored to your unique needs.
(631) 437-4981 View (631) 437-4981
Photo of Dr. Madeleine R. Eugene - Relax Your Mind Services, LLC, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Relax Your Mind Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
(732) 800-5920 View (732) 800-5920
Photo of Serena Chen, MD, Psychiatrist
Serena Chen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Serena Chen completed her psychiatry training at Harvard South Shore where she also served as the Chief of Wellness. In addition to her residency training, she pursued further therapy training at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. Dr. Chen believes in combining medication management and therapy for the best treatment outcomes. She takes a patient-centered and collaborative approach with the aim of helping patients achieve their own personal vision for improved well-being. She had previously worked as a consultant before deciding to pursue a career in medicine.
Dr. Serena Chen completed her psychiatry training at Harvard South Shore where she also served as the Chief of Wellness. In addition to her residency training, she pursued further therapy training at the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. Dr. Chen believes in combining medication management and therapy for the best treatment outcomes. She takes a patient-centered and collaborative approach with the aim of helping patients achieve their own personal vision for improved well-being. She had previously worked as a consultant before deciding to pursue a career in medicine.
(917) 634-5311 View (917) 634-5311

See more therapy options for 11022

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 11022

< 10

Psychiatrists in 11022 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Narcissistic Personality (NPD)
100% Medication Management
100% Self Esteem
67% Relationship Issues
67% ADHD

Average years in practice

30 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

33% Aetna
33% BlueCross and BlueShield
33% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 11022 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 11022?

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.