Psychiatrists in 11215

Photo of Alhasan Ghazzawi, MD, Psychiatrist
Alhasan Ghazzawi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
As a dedicated board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult psychiatry, I am committed to providing care that addresses the multifaceted aspects of my patients' well-being. I offer an integrated approach that recognizes the interplay between social, psychological, and biological factors in shaping mental health. I began my psychiatry career at Maimonides Medical Center, serving as chief resident and pursued a post-doc training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at NYU's Psychoanalytical Association of New York. Following this, I completed my public psychiatry fellowship at Columbia University.
As a dedicated board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult psychiatry, I am committed to providing care that addresses the multifaceted aspects of my patients' well-being. I offer an integrated approach that recognizes the interplay between social, psychological, and biological factors in shaping mental health. I began my psychiatry career at Maimonides Medical Center, serving as chief resident and pursued a post-doc training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at NYU's Psychoanalytical Association of New York. Following this, I completed my public psychiatry fellowship at Columbia University.
(646) 846-7281 View (646) 846-7281
Photo of Dr. Sabrina Gratia, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sabrina Gratia
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am a double board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Physician Psychiatrist and Columbia trained Therapist. I have a solo private practice in Park Slope and you will always be seen by a physician. I hope to help you or your child develop into your/their best version of yourself by building a trusting and caring therapeutic relationship. Each person is seen as an individual and is encouraged to be an active participant in their own treatment, whether it be psychotherapy and/or medication management.
I am a double board certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Physician Psychiatrist and Columbia trained Therapist. I have a solo private practice in Park Slope and you will always be seen by a physician. I hope to help you or your child develop into your/their best version of yourself by building a trusting and caring therapeutic relationship. Each person is seen as an individual and is encouraged to be an active participant in their own treatment, whether it be psychotherapy and/or medication management.
(914) 819-5695 View (914) 819-5695
Photo of Samantha Leathers - Samantha Leathers, MD- Psychiatry & Psychoanalysis, MD, Psychiatrist
Samantha Leathers, MD- Psychiatry & Psychoanalysis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
We often find ourselves stuck in certain patterns in our lives, feeling trapped in cycles of dissatisfying relationships and finding our work unfulfilling. You may feel lost, confused, frustrated, or struggle with your self-worth. As much as you might be struggling, at the same time, you are here seeking help with the hope that someone may help you sort through your struggles. I believe that my job is to help you to understand your thoughts and feelings. Together, we will start to gain a deeper understanding of the complex ways your mind works, so that you may start on a path of better health and functioning.
We often find ourselves stuck in certain patterns in our lives, feeling trapped in cycles of dissatisfying relationships and finding our work unfulfilling. You may feel lost, confused, frustrated, or struggle with your self-worth. As much as you might be struggling, at the same time, you are here seeking help with the hope that someone may help you sort through your struggles. I believe that my job is to help you to understand your thoughts and feelings. Together, we will start to gain a deeper understanding of the complex ways your mind works, so that you may start on a path of better health and functioning.
(646) 891-1243 View (646) 891-1243
Melanie Schwarz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I have extensive experience in working with patients who are struggling with Depression, Anxiety and Relationship issues. I provide both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I have a particular expertise in working with patients with concurrent medical issues. This includes women struggling with REPRODUCTIVE ISSUES, including infertility, antepartum and postpartum depression, menapause. I also specialize in patients with chronic medical illnesses including but not limited to Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer and end of life issues.
I have extensive experience in working with patients who are struggling with Depression, Anxiety and Relationship issues. I provide both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I have a particular expertise in working with patients with concurrent medical issues. This includes women struggling with REPRODUCTIVE ISSUES, including infertility, antepartum and postpartum depression, menapause. I also specialize in patients with chronic medical illnesses including but not limited to Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer and end of life issues.
(646) 600-8219 View (646) 600-8219
Photo of Charles Edward McDermott, M, D, Psychiatrist
Charles Edward McDermott
Psychiatrist, M, D
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I can help you thrive in your personal and professional life and overcome difficulties with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, career and relationship issues. I am a board certified, compassionate psychiatrist in private practice for 40 years and a former faculty member at SUNY Medical College. I’ve found, and research confirms, that treatment is more effective when psychotherapy is added even when medication is needed. My psychotherapy is informed by advances in neuroscience. Most sessions include both psychotherapy and evaluation of your medication. If you have insurance, I’ll help you with information for your claim.
I can help you thrive in your personal and professional life and overcome difficulties with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, career and relationship issues. I am a board certified, compassionate psychiatrist in private practice for 40 years and a former faculty member at SUNY Medical College. I’ve found, and research confirms, that treatment is more effective when psychotherapy is added even when medication is needed. My psychotherapy is informed by advances in neuroscience. Most sessions include both psychotherapy and evaluation of your medication. If you have insurance, I’ll help you with information for your claim.
(347) 991-8657 View (347) 991-8657
Photo of Jacob Leivent, MD, Psychiatrist
Jacob Leivent
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I treat high functioning adults who suffer from symptoms that prevent them from reaching their full potential. I specialize in targeting symptoms related to anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, ADHD, depression, and other mood disorders. I offer clients both flexibility and ease of scheduling regardless of work schedules with evening and weekend office hours from 2 office locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
I treat high functioning adults who suffer from symptoms that prevent them from reaching their full potential. I specialize in targeting symptoms related to anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, ADHD, depression, and other mood disorders. I offer clients both flexibility and ease of scheduling regardless of work schedules with evening and weekend office hours from 2 office locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
(516) 531-2450 View (516) 531-2450
Photo of Jennifer M Kenny, NP-P, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer M Kenny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-P, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I have extensive clinical training and expertise in perinatal psychiatry. I provide specialized medication management for preconception, pregnant, and postpartum families, including during fertility treatment and breastfeeding. Whether you have new concerns about postpartum depression and anxiety, or are feeling stressed and overwhelmed in pregnancy, you are not alone. I believe that holistic maternity care encompasses both mind and body. Having a support system that is mindful of both your physical and mental wellbeing before, during and after pregnancy can make all the difference.
I have extensive clinical training and expertise in perinatal psychiatry. I provide specialized medication management for preconception, pregnant, and postpartum families, including during fertility treatment and breastfeeding. Whether you have new concerns about postpartum depression and anxiety, or are feeling stressed and overwhelmed in pregnancy, you are not alone. I believe that holistic maternity care encompasses both mind and body. Having a support system that is mindful of both your physical and mental wellbeing before, during and after pregnancy can make all the difference.
(475) 253-5034 View (475) 253-5034
Photo of Dr. Irina Kogan, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Irina Kogan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with patients with treatment-resistant depression when medications and therapy don’t provide enough quality of life improvement. I can refer my patients to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation of the brain (TMS) or Ketamine treatment, if necessary. I treat patients with ADHD, PTSD, Mood disorders, Anxiety spectrum disorders, and Dual diagnosis patients.
I work with patients with treatment-resistant depression when medications and therapy don’t provide enough quality of life improvement. I can refer my patients to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation of the brain (TMS) or Ketamine treatment, if necessary. I treat patients with ADHD, PTSD, Mood disorders, Anxiety spectrum disorders, and Dual diagnosis patients.
(347) 657-3328 View (347) 657-3328
Photo of Natasha Felton, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha Felton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Do you feel that it is time to get help and to address the emotional pain you have been feeling? Maybe you are ready to focus on yourself and to break through old patterns that keep you feeling stuck. It is not easy to find a good provider in NYC and I'd like to make it easier for you to get the care that you deserve. Your health and well-being are my top priority. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in holistic and integrative psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
Do you feel that it is time to get help and to address the emotional pain you have been feeling? Maybe you are ready to focus on yourself and to break through old patterns that keep you feeling stuck. It is not easy to find a good provider in NYC and I'd like to make it easier for you to get the care that you deserve. Your health and well-being are my top priority. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in holistic and integrative psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
(646) 759-0714 View (646) 759-0714
Photo of Millin Sekhon, MD, Psychiatrist
Millin Sekhon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you seeking to improve your mental health? I am an ABPN Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, with experience in psychopharmacology and various talk therapy modalities. I offer a well-rounded approach to mental wellness.
Are you seeking to improve your mental health? I am an ABPN Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, with experience in psychopharmacology and various talk therapy modalities. I offer a well-rounded approach to mental wellness.
(646) 759-4091 View (646) 759-4091
Photo of Emmy Li, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Emmy Li
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Emmy Li, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, PCCN, CCRN is a double board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She recognizes that every individual has unique experiences, circumstances, challenges, and history and, therefore strives to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each specific need. She is committed to developing therapeutic alliances with patients through building trust, empathy, and mutual respect. Her approach to care involves actively listening, validating the experiences, and collaborating to establish goals while incorporating a combination of different therapies and/or medication.
Emmy Li, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, PCCN, CCRN is a double board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She recognizes that every individual has unique experiences, circumstances, challenges, and history and, therefore strives to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each specific need. She is committed to developing therapeutic alliances with patients through building trust, empathy, and mutual respect. Her approach to care involves actively listening, validating the experiences, and collaborating to establish goals while incorporating a combination of different therapies and/or medication.
(929) 581-7860 View (929) 581-7860
Photo of Sarah L Hartman, MD, Psychiatrist
Sarah L Hartman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am an experienced, Columbia University-trained psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, and I specialize in treating patients who require psychodynamic treatment to understand themselves and their problems more deeply; medications; or often a combination of the two. Choice of treatment modality is always dependent on the needs and preferences of the patient.
I am an experienced, Columbia University-trained psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, and I specialize in treating patients who require psychodynamic treatment to understand themselves and their problems more deeply; medications; or often a combination of the two. Choice of treatment modality is always dependent on the needs and preferences of the patient.
(347) 647-9644 View (347) 647-9644
Photo of Natasha Felton, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natasha Felton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Your health and well-being are my top priority. I am a Brooklyn-based Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 18 years of experience. I focus on integrative psychotherapy and psychopharmacology considering your priorities, lifestyle, and your symptoms to help you address your concerns and to enhance your life. As we collaborate to achieve your goals, you can expect a thorough, but gentle, compassionate and personalized experience. I work with both adolescents and adults, and serve individuals from every cultural background. I work in private practice with Dr. Beata Lewis MD at Mind Body Seven.
Your health and well-being are my top priority. I am a Brooklyn-based Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 18 years of experience. I focus on integrative psychotherapy and psychopharmacology considering your priorities, lifestyle, and your symptoms to help you address your concerns and to enhance your life. As we collaborate to achieve your goals, you can expect a thorough, but gentle, compassionate and personalized experience. I work with both adolescents and adults, and serve individuals from every cultural background. I work in private practice with Dr. Beata Lewis MD at Mind Body Seven.
(646) 719-0813 View (646) 719-0813
Photo of Darwin Joseph Buschman, MD, Psychiatrist
Darwin Joseph Buschman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am board certified psychiatrist, medical school SUNY Downstate, residency NYU/Bellvue, in private practice since 1986 in New York City with affiliations NYU, Mt. Sinai, St. Lukes/Roosevelt, Lenox Hill hospitals and others. I have a broad range of experience I describe as general psychiatry with expertise in Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Dementias, and many areas although I don't prefer to treat Substance Abuse Disorders or ADHD (I do not prescribe stimulants.) i provide psychotherapy AND medication and 1-2 session psychiatric evaluations with assessment and recommendations. email me if interested.
I am board certified psychiatrist, medical school SUNY Downstate, residency NYU/Bellvue, in private practice since 1986 in New York City with affiliations NYU, Mt. Sinai, St. Lukes/Roosevelt, Lenox Hill hospitals and others. I have a broad range of experience I describe as general psychiatry with expertise in Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Dementias, and many areas although I don't prefer to treat Substance Abuse Disorders or ADHD (I do not prescribe stimulants.) i provide psychotherapy AND medication and 1-2 session psychiatric evaluations with assessment and recommendations. email me if interested.
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Photo of Kathleen Fentress Tripp, MSN, PMHNP-B, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Kathleen Fentress Tripp
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP-B, PNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Supporting you in your health and recovery are my top priorities and I look forward to working with you closely to address your needs or the needs of your child. I am a Yale-educated, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of experience. I am a specialist in integrative psychopharmacology and I work with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I am a psychotherapist using CBT and DBT approaches to address mood, anxiety, relationship, and other concerns. My goal is to listen to you deeply and to understand your experience so that I can be of greatest help.
Supporting you in your health and recovery are my top priorities and I look forward to working with you closely to address your needs or the needs of your child. I am a Yale-educated, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of experience. I am a specialist in integrative psychopharmacology and I work with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I am a psychotherapist using CBT and DBT approaches to address mood, anxiety, relationship, and other concerns. My goal is to listen to you deeply and to understand your experience so that I can be of greatest help.
(646) 490-1747 View (646) 490-1747
Photo of Lizzet I Garcia - Lizzet I. Garcia MD 718-499-2925, MD, Psychiatrist
Lizzet I. Garcia MD 718-499-2925
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Hi, I am a medical doctor with a specialty in Adult Psychiatry with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am also a psychoanalyst and pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychodynamic Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Institute at Columbia University. I am also a Public Psychiatry Fellow at Columbia University. My training has enabled me to have expertise in psychopharmacology and also patient centered care with focus on primary psychiatric diagnosis and personality disorders. Now treating office based opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.
Hi, I am a medical doctor with a specialty in Adult Psychiatry with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am also a psychoanalyst and pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychodynamic Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Institute at Columbia University. I am also a Public Psychiatry Fellow at Columbia University. My training has enabled me to have expertise in psychopharmacology and also patient centered care with focus on primary psychiatric diagnosis and personality disorders. Now treating office based opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.
(347) 767-5577 View (347) 767-5577
Photo of Kari Groff - Park Slope Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Park Slope Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
(646) 455-3324 View (646) 455-3324
Photo of Jason Meisel, PMHMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jason Meisel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Master's Degree in Nursing from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing. My goal is to work with you and utilize medications and therapy to get a handle and understanding on your mental health struggles.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Master's Degree in Nursing from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing. My goal is to work with you and utilize medications and therapy to get a handle and understanding on your mental health struggles.
(347) 694-8722 View (347) 694-8722
Photo of Tracy Roth, MD, Psychiatrist
Tracy Roth
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Feeling depressed, anxious and stuck in unsatisfying thought and behavior patterns can feel very isolating. Working together in psychotherapy or psychoanalysis gives us the opportunity to take a closer look at your feelings for a fuller understanding of who you are and how your mind works. Through our exploration, we will develop more flexible ways for you to approach challenges, leading to greater satisfaction in your life.
Feeling depressed, anxious and stuck in unsatisfying thought and behavior patterns can feel very isolating. Working together in psychotherapy or psychoanalysis gives us the opportunity to take a closer look at your feelings for a fuller understanding of who you are and how your mind works. Through our exploration, we will develop more flexible ways for you to approach challenges, leading to greater satisfaction in your life.
(347) 763-6065 View (347) 763-6065
Photo of Beata Bliss Lewis, MD, Psychiatrist
Beata Bliss Lewis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
You deserve to live your best life, and I would like to help. I am an experienced, compassionate psychiatrist and psychotherapist serving the Brooklyn community. I utilize a balanced blend of psychotherapy, medication, and complementary approaches to help you find lasting solutions for both your mental health and your overall well-being. While I can assist with many concerns, I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues. I am experienced in treating children, adolescents, adults, and individuals of all sexual orientations. We'll take a collaborative approach to help you achieve your goals.
You deserve to live your best life, and I would like to help. I am an experienced, compassionate psychiatrist and psychotherapist serving the Brooklyn community. I utilize a balanced blend of psychotherapy, medication, and complementary approaches to help you find lasting solutions for both your mental health and your overall well-being. While I can assist with many concerns, I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues. I am experienced in treating children, adolescents, adults, and individuals of all sexual orientations. We'll take a collaborative approach to help you achieve your goals.
(646) 606-2663 View (646) 606-2663
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 11215

60+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 11215 who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
86% Medication Management
77% ADHD
76% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
65% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 11215 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

63% Female
36% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 11215?

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.