Psychiatrists in 11201

Photo of Zoe Goldberg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Zoe Goldberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my Masters of Science and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Columbia University and completed my clinical training at Bellevue Hospital. I have worked with adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, insomnia, and various other mental health concerns.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my Masters of Science and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Columbia University and completed my clinical training at Bellevue Hospital. I have worked with adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, insomnia, and various other mental health concerns.
(929) 207-9379 View (929) 207-9379
Photo of Diana Deutsch, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Diana Deutsch
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychiatrist with specialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, and adults for individual psychotherapy. I also treat couples and work with families. People may need help dealing with some new stressor that causes difficulty, or with ongoing issues that are chronically disruptive to them. My role as a therapist is to help diagnose and treat mental health disorders. My goal is to improve the overall functioning of my clients. The therapeutic relationship is built on trust and confidentiality. I have the utmost respect for any person I treat, and I conduct myself with warmth and integrity.
I am a psychiatrist with specialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry. I see children, adolescents, and adults for individual psychotherapy. I also treat couples and work with families. People may need help dealing with some new stressor that causes difficulty, or with ongoing issues that are chronically disruptive to them. My role as a therapist is to help diagnose and treat mental health disorders. My goal is to improve the overall functioning of my clients. The therapeutic relationship is built on trust and confidentiality. I have the utmost respect for any person I treat, and I conduct myself with warmth and integrity.
(929) 295-4612 View (929) 295-4612
Photo of Carrie A Hill, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CARN-AP
Carrie A Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CARN-AP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety/Depression, and Addiction. With over 16 years of experience in psychiatry, I use treatment services that include: comprehensive assessment and evaluation, medication recommendations tailored to your needs, and motivational interviewing to help you recognize your strengths and ability to make healthy lifestyle changes. My approach is very patient-centered. You’re the expert on your own life & I’m here to collaborate to diagnose your feelings and provide the knowledge for long-term solutions.
Welcome! I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety/Depression, and Addiction. With over 16 years of experience in psychiatry, I use treatment services that include: comprehensive assessment and evaluation, medication recommendations tailored to your needs, and motivational interviewing to help you recognize your strengths and ability to make healthy lifestyle changes. My approach is very patient-centered. You’re the expert on your own life & I’m here to collaborate to diagnose your feelings and provide the knowledge for long-term solutions.
(929) 335-9027 View (929) 335-9027
Photo of Debbie Davieca Singh - Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I offer specialized mental health services that cater to adults and children, providing expert support for individuals encountering various mental health conditions and symptoms. I am dedicated to supporting individuals facing various mental health conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, autism medication management, ADHD, ODD, and learning disabilities.
I offer specialized mental health services that cater to adults and children, providing expert support for individuals encountering various mental health conditions and symptoms. I am dedicated to supporting individuals facing various mental health conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, autism medication management, ADHD, ODD, and learning disabilities.
(347) 952-7689 x101 View (347) 952-7689 x101
Photo of Mark Rybakov, Psychiatrist, DO
Mark Rybakov
Psychiatrist, DO
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dr. Rybakov is a compassionate and insightful psychiatrist, treating adults, adolescents and children with a variety of issues including attention deficit disorders (ADHD), anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders and post traumatic stress disorders and stress related problems. Dr. Rybakov also provides tele-psychiatry follow up visits for busy adults and students. Dr. Rybakov splits his time between private practice, teaching and being a director of a community mental health center. Dr. Rybakov is not affiliated with any insurance plans. Documentation will be provided that can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement.
Dr. Rybakov is a compassionate and insightful psychiatrist, treating adults, adolescents and children with a variety of issues including attention deficit disorders (ADHD), anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders and post traumatic stress disorders and stress related problems. Dr. Rybakov also provides tele-psychiatry follow up visits for busy adults and students. Dr. Rybakov splits his time between private practice, teaching and being a director of a community mental health center. Dr. Rybakov is not affiliated with any insurance plans. Documentation will be provided that can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement.
(212) 645-1896 View (212) 645-1896
Photo of Henrietta Okpala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Henrietta Okpala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, DNP, PMHNP-BC, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those who have Mood Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Schizoaffective D/O, Bipolar D/O, Autism Spectrum, Intellectual Disabilities, geriatric population, young adults to geriatrics population and people with gender identity disorder.
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, DNP, PMHNP-BC, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those who have Mood Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Schizoaffective D/O, Bipolar D/O, Autism Spectrum, Intellectual Disabilities, geriatric population, young adults to geriatrics population and people with gender identity disorder.
(347) 220-8675 View (347) 220-8675
Photo of Kat Broadway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MS, PMHNP
Kat Broadway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MS, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am here to join you in deep exploration of your emotional journey. Together, we will identify and solidify your internal and external resources, deepen your emotional resilience, and create a path out of the darkness. We will start with a consultation and full assessment and then work together to create an individualized treatment plan. I specialize in working with mood disorders, trauma, queer fertility, and hormones.
I am here to join you in deep exploration of your emotional journey. Together, we will identify and solidify your internal and external resources, deepen your emotional resilience, and create a path out of the darkness. We will start with a consultation and full assessment and then work together to create an individualized treatment plan. I specialize in working with mood disorders, trauma, queer fertility, and hormones.
(929) 294-8844 View (929) 294-8844
Photo of Irina Kogan, Psychiatrist, MD
Irina Kogan
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dr. Irina Kogan is a board certified psychiatrist with a thorough knowledge of psychopharmacology across the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders. She is expert in the treatment of mood, anxiety, and attentional disorders. In addition, she completed addiction psychiatry training at Beth Israel Medical Center, where she gained expertise in the treatment of co-occurring substance use disorders (substance use that occurs alongside anxiety, depression, and other conditions). Dr. Kogan provides cutting edge treatment for the full spectrum of mood, anxiety, attentional and related conditions.
Dr. Irina Kogan is a board certified psychiatrist with a thorough knowledge of psychopharmacology across the full spectrum of psychiatric disorders. She is expert in the treatment of mood, anxiety, and attentional disorders. In addition, she completed addiction psychiatry training at Beth Israel Medical Center, where she gained expertise in the treatment of co-occurring substance use disorders (substance use that occurs alongside anxiety, depression, and other conditions). Dr. Kogan provides cutting edge treatment for the full spectrum of mood, anxiety, attentional and related conditions.
(929) 560-2115 View (929) 560-2115
Photo of Patrice Rodgers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patrice Rodgers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Patrice Rodgers and I am a PMHNP with over 25+ years experience in psychiatry and medicine with dual board certification as a PMHNP and Adult Medicine NP. I have extensive experience with diverse populations in the inpatient and outpatient settings.
My name is Patrice Rodgers and I am a PMHNP with over 25+ years experience in psychiatry and medicine with dual board certification as a PMHNP and Adult Medicine NP. I have extensive experience with diverse populations in the inpatient and outpatient settings.
(914) 228-7812 View (914) 228-7812
Photo of Andrew Anson, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrew Anson
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in New York and New Orleans doing in-depth therapeutic work on the couch, face to face, and virtually. Now accepting patients for hybrid in-person and virtual work in downtown Brooklyn for summer of 2025.
Board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst in New York and New Orleans doing in-depth therapeutic work on the couch, face to face, and virtually. Now accepting patients for hybrid in-person and virtual work in downtown Brooklyn for summer of 2025.
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Photo of Stephanie English, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Stephanie English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Online Only
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, psychologist, and life coach with over 30 years of experience. I work with clients who live in New York State, are between the ages of 18 and 60, and are considering medication to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, or attention deficits. I work with ALL clients and am particularly a good fit for those who are considering medication for the first time OR whose first experience with medication was less than ideal. Once stable, I offer coaching to improve your thinking, habits, and lifestyle to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve your overall well-being.
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner, psychologist, and life coach with over 30 years of experience. I work with clients who live in New York State, are between the ages of 18 and 60, and are considering medication to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, or attention deficits. I work with ALL clients and am particularly a good fit for those who are considering medication for the first time OR whose first experience with medication was less than ideal. Once stable, I offer coaching to improve your thinking, habits, and lifestyle to reduce the risk of recurrence and improve your overall well-being.
(347) 690-7245 View (347) 690-7245
Photo of Sean Guinnane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sean Guinnane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I’ve been working in psychiatric care for almost a decade, helping people manage anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. My goal is to make this process feel as normal and comfortable as possible—no judgment, no pressure, just support.
I’ve been working in psychiatric care for almost a decade, helping people manage anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. My goal is to make this process feel as normal and comfortable as possible—no judgment, no pressure, just support.
(347) 252-6569 View (347) 252-6569
Photo of Jannet Harkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jannet Harkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Psychiatry has always been a passion for me, PMHNP. With five years of experience in Emergency Psychiatry, Inpatient and Outpatient Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Chemical Dependency, she brings a diverse skill set and dedication to collaborative care to Rula. I believe in partnering with patients to achieve their health goals. As Noam Shpancer, PhD, aptly stated, “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” Together, embark on a journey towards mental well-being, one step at a time.
Psychiatry has always been a passion for me, PMHNP. With five years of experience in Emergency Psychiatry, Inpatient and Outpatient Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Chemical Dependency, she brings a diverse skill set and dedication to collaborative care to Rula. I believe in partnering with patients to achieve their health goals. As Noam Shpancer, PhD, aptly stated, “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” Together, embark on a journey towards mental well-being, one step at a time.
(914) 601-3925 View (914) 601-3925
Photo of Shalita Clark, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shalita Clark
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a clinical career in outpatient settings. I specialize in managing the care of adults with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and adjustment disorders. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation, monitoring, and management.
Hello, I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a clinical career in outpatient settings. I specialize in managing the care of adults with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, panic, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and adjustment disorders. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation, monitoring, and management.
(929) 205-4786 View (929) 205-4786
Photo of Olanike O Kekere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP
Olanike O Kekere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
(929) 362-5934 View (929) 362-5934
Photo of Sharon Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sharon Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am a PMHNP. My specialized practice areas are anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, substance abuse and addictions, and Neuro-developmental disorders. mood disorders, stress disorders, and Insomnia. I believe in collaboratively setting smart goals and prioritizing the client's well-being. The goals will be broken down into smaller, manageable steps or milestones. This will increase the client's motivation and sense of accomplishment as progress is made through ongoing review and modification of goals based on successes or challenges encountered by the client.
Hello, I am a PMHNP. My specialized practice areas are anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, substance abuse and addictions, and Neuro-developmental disorders. mood disorders, stress disorders, and Insomnia. I believe in collaboratively setting smart goals and prioritizing the client's well-being. The goals will be broken down into smaller, manageable steps or milestones. This will increase the client's motivation and sense of accomplishment as progress is made through ongoing review and modification of goals based on successes or challenges encountered by the client.
(646) 466-6133 View (646) 466-6133
Photo of Ebony Renae Petit - Petit Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Petit Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dr. Petit is a board-certified psychiatrist in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, bringing a wealth of experience from diverse clinical settings, including outpatient private practice, inpatient units, telehealth services, and partial hospitalization programs. This breadth of experience has allowed her to develop a comprehensive and adaptable approach to patient care, honing her skills in working with both children and adults across a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Her background includes a strong foundation in psychology, complemented by her medical degree from the Heersink School of Medicine.
Dr. Petit is a board-certified psychiatrist in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, bringing a wealth of experience from diverse clinical settings, including outpatient private practice, inpatient units, telehealth services, and partial hospitalization programs. This breadth of experience has allowed her to develop a comprehensive and adaptable approach to patient care, honing her skills in working with both children and adults across a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Her background includes a strong foundation in psychology, complemented by her medical degree from the Heersink School of Medicine.
(929) 591-2935 View (929) 591-2935
Photo of Amaka Orji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amaka Orji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you a Millennial, Gen Z, or First Gen-American professional feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure how to break free from anxiety or depression? The pressure to succeed, balance a demanding career, and navigate cultural or family expectations can feel like too much. Maybe you’re battling burnout, high-functioning anxiety, or the stigma around mental health and taking medications in your community. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience, I help clients like you regain motivation, find purpose, and actually enjoy life again—with expert guidance, empathy, and a little humor. You're not alone.
Are you a Millennial, Gen Z, or First Gen-American professional feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure how to break free from anxiety or depression? The pressure to succeed, balance a demanding career, and navigate cultural or family expectations can feel like too much. Maybe you’re battling burnout, high-functioning anxiety, or the stigma around mental health and taking medications in your community. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience, I help clients like you regain motivation, find purpose, and actually enjoy life again—with expert guidance, empathy, and a little humor. You're not alone.
(929) 556-6465 View (929) 556-6465
Linda Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Linda Perry, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in trauma-informed care and postpartum support. She is also trained in Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy, treating children, adolescents, adult and geriatric Psychopharmacology. Linda is also a Licensed Certified Nurse Midwife in NJ and NY, since 2002. She has experience as a Sexual assault nurse examiner, involvement in Domestic and Intimate Partner violence and is a volunteer advocate with the Rachel Coalition.
Linda Perry, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in trauma-informed care and postpartum support. She is also trained in Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy, treating children, adolescents, adult and geriatric Psychopharmacology. Linda is also a Licensed Certified Nurse Midwife in NJ and NY, since 2002. She has experience as a Sexual assault nurse examiner, involvement in Domestic and Intimate Partner violence and is a volunteer advocate with the Rachel Coalition.
(347) 752-5850 View (347) 752-5850
Photo of Royston Ogbuagu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Royston Ogbuagu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Royston Ogbuagu, PMHNP-BC Royston's style of practice fosters the belief that every client is an individual who deserves an individualistic treatment approach to their own unique past, present and future life challenges. He brings a strong culturally sensitive approach to address ongoing stressors within the client, his environment and support network or lack thereof. His understanding of the client's personal values being a crucial tool to establish a good rapport, trust and a positive collaborative therapist/client relationship is a core strength he possesses.
Royston Ogbuagu, PMHNP-BC Royston's style of practice fosters the belief that every client is an individual who deserves an individualistic treatment approach to their own unique past, present and future life challenges. He brings a strong culturally sensitive approach to address ongoing stressors within the client, his environment and support network or lack thereof. His understanding of the client's personal values being a crucial tool to establish a good rapport, trust and a positive collaborative therapist/client relationship is a core strength he possesses.
(718) 550-5275 View (718) 550-5275

See more therapy options for 11201

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 11201

200+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 11201 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
94% Anxiety
82% Medication Management
78% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
74% Trauma and PTSD
67% ADHD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
87% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 11201 see their clients

65% Online Only
35% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

63% Female
37% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 11201?

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.