Psychiatrists in 11581

Joseph Pierrot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11581
Hi, I’m Dr. Joseph Pierrot! I’m here to help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. My approach is focused on managing symptoms through a combination of therapy and medication, while also supporting you in reaching important goals. These goals may include reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, improving daily functioning, and strengthening relationships and social skills. I work closely with my patients, offering counseling and therapy to help them develop healthy coping strategies and better navigate the challenges of mental illness.
Hi, I’m Dr. Joseph Pierrot! I’m here to help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. My approach is focused on managing symptoms through a combination of therapy and medication, while also supporting you in reaching important goals. These goals may include reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, improving daily functioning, and strengthening relationships and social skills. I work closely with my patients, offering counseling and therapy to help them develop healthy coping strategies and better navigate the challenges of mental illness.

Nexus Healthworks NP in Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Jim Palmer, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatric care. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD and seeks compassionate, effective mental health care. They want relief from overwhelming emotions, better coping strategies, and a sense of control over their life. Their goal is to heal, grow, and achieve lasting well-being through expert guidance and personalized treatment.
My name is Jim Palmer, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience in psychiatric care. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ADHD and seeks compassionate, effective mental health care. They want relief from overwhelming emotions, better coping strategies, and a sense of control over their life. Their goal is to heal, grow, and achieve lasting well-being through expert guidance and personalized treatment.

Danielle Damas NP in Psychiatry P.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a holistic mental health practice, Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC focuses on helping people of all ages overcome their challenges and move forward into a thriving, satisfying life. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Danielle Damas, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BC-NP, is based in Valley Stream, New York, and offers her psychiatric services through telemedicine and in person visits.
As a holistic mental health practice, Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC focuses on helping people of all ages overcome their challenges and move forward into a thriving, satisfying life. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Danielle Damas, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BC-NP, is based in Valley Stream, New York, and offers her psychiatric services through telemedicine and in person visits.

Nathalie Avignon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Nathalie Avignon! 'I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience in nursing. I'm well-versed in providing psychotherapy and psychoeducation to my clients on mental health, medications, and preventative health measures. I take an approach of enabling my clients, so they can take better care for themselves and their psychiatric and behavioral needs.
Hello! My name is Nathalie Avignon! 'I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 10+ years of experience in nursing. I'm well-versed in providing psychotherapy and psychoeducation to my clients on mental health, medications, and preventative health measures. I take an approach of enabling my clients, so they can take better care for themselves and their psychiatric and behavioral needs.

As an integrative holistic psychiatrist, I merge traditional psychiatry with holistic therapies like nutrition, exercise, yoga, and meditation to promote mental wellness and overall health. Collaborating closely with clients, I develop personalized treatment plans that address both mind and body. When appropriate, I incorporate spirituality, teaching breathing and meditation to support deeper healing. Together, we’ll blend evidence-based psychotherapy, medication management, and holistic techniques to help you unlock your strengths and live a more empowered, fulfilling life.
As an integrative holistic psychiatrist, I merge traditional psychiatry with holistic therapies like nutrition, exercise, yoga, and meditation to promote mental wellness and overall health. Collaborating closely with clients, I develop personalized treatment plans that address both mind and body. When appropriate, I incorporate spirituality, teaching breathing and meditation to support deeper healing. Together, we’ll blend evidence-based psychotherapy, medication management, and holistic techniques to help you unlock your strengths and live a more empowered, fulfilling life.

Visit our website for more info www.pnpenvision.com At Envision psychiatry, we offer comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Insomnia, OCD and ADHD. At present, we offer Telehealth and in-person session. We accept the following insurances. Cigna, Aetna, BCBS, UHC, oxford, Oscar, medicare, emblem health, GHI, 1199, CDPHP. Call, email or visit www.pnpenvision.com to schedule an appointment.
Visit our website for more info www.pnpenvision.com At Envision psychiatry, we offer comprehensive mental health assessment, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Insomnia, OCD and ADHD. At present, we offer Telehealth and in-person session. We accept the following insurances. Cigna, Aetna, BCBS, UHC, oxford, Oscar, medicare, emblem health, GHI, 1199, CDPHP. Call, email or visit www.pnpenvision.com to schedule an appointment.

DH Mental Health Continuum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Book with me now by clicking on my website. My name is Desiree Hopkinson and I started DH Mental Health Continuum because I am passionate about giving quality access to care and the time you deserve. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Ten years of experience in healthcare, including psychiatric mental health nursing working with clients across the lifespan with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline disorder, ADHD as well as anxiety, and depressive disorders.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. My name is Desiree Hopkinson and I started DH Mental Health Continuum because I am passionate about giving quality access to care and the time you deserve. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Ten years of experience in healthcare, including psychiatric mental health nursing working with clients across the lifespan with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline disorder, ADHD as well as anxiety, and depressive disorders.

Mindful Integral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing psychiatry for over seven years. I have treated patients from all diverse groups. At present, I only conduct psychiatric evaluations and follow-up assessments in the adult and the geriatric population. I specialize in treating behavioral, psychotic, bipolar, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. My hope as a mental health provider is to collaborate with patients and/or their significant other through the implementation of a holistic approach in devising a treatment plan to address mental disorders, symptoms, and/or issues.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing psychiatry for over seven years. I have treated patients from all diverse groups. At present, I only conduct psychiatric evaluations and follow-up assessments in the adult and the geriatric population. I specialize in treating behavioral, psychotic, bipolar, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. My hope as a mental health provider is to collaborate with patients and/or their significant other through the implementation of a holistic approach in devising a treatment plan to address mental disorders, symptoms, and/or issues.

I believe in using evidence-based practice and treatment modalities.I strive to look at each individual holistically and focus on holistic treatment which includes: medication management, nutrition, exercise and sleep hygiene practices. I listen to the individual’s needs and consider myself part of a team when working with clients. I believe in using supportive, solution focused, CBT and DBT therapy along with medication management to treat mental health conditions. Services available in NY,AZ,FL. Have availability within 1-3 business days. Now taking NY Medicaid.
I believe in using evidence-based practice and treatment modalities.I strive to look at each individual holistically and focus on holistic treatment which includes: medication management, nutrition, exercise and sleep hygiene practices. I listen to the individual’s needs and consider myself part of a team when working with clients. I believe in using supportive, solution focused, CBT and DBT therapy along with medication management to treat mental health conditions. Services available in NY,AZ,FL. Have availability within 1-3 business days. Now taking NY Medicaid.

I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of clinical experience. I currently maintain a clinical position in Brooklyn, NY at a non for profit client centered outpatient community health program. I specialize in adult mental health treatment; notably assessing patients with various mental health conditions, formulating diagnoses and offering treatment options.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 12 years of clinical experience. I currently maintain a clinical position in Brooklyn, NY at a non for profit client centered outpatient community health program. I specialize in adult mental health treatment; notably assessing patients with various mental health conditions, formulating diagnoses and offering treatment options.

I am not an MD I do NOT prescribe medication...I have been a therapist for more than 30 years. During that time I have lived through many of the life events my clients may have been or are experiencing. I am the daughter of an aging mother, the mother of married children and a grandmother. I have experienced the loss of a parent and my spouse and understand all the emotions that come along with all life's stressful events, both joyous and sad.
I am not an MD I do NOT prescribe medication...I have been a therapist for more than 30 years. During that time I have lived through many of the life events my clients may have been or are experiencing. I am the daughter of an aging mother, the mother of married children and a grandmother. I have experienced the loss of a parent and my spouse and understand all the emotions that come along with all life's stressful events, both joyous and sad.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Seth Barrington Dressekie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Practicing at Woodstock Health Works, LLC, Mr. Seth Dressekie serves the community of Valley Stream, NY. Mr. Dressekie is a skilled nurse practitioner who specializes in family psychiatric and mental health nursing and adult psychiatric and mental health nursing. He manages a wide array of patient concerns, such as sleep problems, stress, alcoholism, anxiety, and depression. He enjoys sharing his love for a healthy living with his patients to inspire them to reach their health goals.
Practicing at Woodstock Health Works, LLC, Mr. Seth Dressekie serves the community of Valley Stream, NY. Mr. Dressekie is a skilled nurse practitioner who specializes in family psychiatric and mental health nursing and adult psychiatric and mental health nursing. He manages a wide array of patient concerns, such as sleep problems, stress, alcoholism, anxiety, and depression. He enjoys sharing his love for a healthy living with his patients to inspire them to reach their health goals.

I am board -certified mental health nurse practitioner who simplifies mental health life experiences and also helps to address emotional challenges that could feel overwhelming at times by using pharmacotherapy approach. These challenges are addressed by connecting to my patients, helping them find purposes and guiding them towards balance. The goal is to make the patients life more peaceful and enjoyable.
I am board -certified mental health nurse practitioner who simplifies mental health life experiences and also helps to address emotional challenges that could feel overwhelming at times by using pharmacotherapy approach. These challenges are addressed by connecting to my patients, helping them find purposes and guiding them towards balance. The goal is to make the patients life more peaceful and enjoyable.

My passion is to help others achieve wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. I currently work both inpatient and outpatient facilities within New York City. I specialize in the diagnoses and treatment of adults with a range of mental health issues.
My passion is to help others achieve wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. I currently work both inpatient and outpatient facilities within New York City. I specialize in the diagnoses and treatment of adults with a range of mental health issues.

Board Certified Psychiatrist with Addiction Psychiatry and Sleep medicine as sub specialities. If you are suffering from mental health, substance use or sleep disorders, don’t keep it to yourself, ask for help and I will make sure to provide you the best care.
Board Certified Psychiatrist with Addiction Psychiatry and Sleep medicine as sub specialities. If you are suffering from mental health, substance use or sleep disorders, don’t keep it to yourself, ask for help and I will make sure to provide you the best care.

Carbon Minds Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581
Robert Terrelonge, APRN, PMHNP is a licensed Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in private practice in New York. He provides treatment for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. As a Nurse Practitioner, Mr. Terrelonge sees patients independently and offers many of the same services as a Psychiatrist, yet combines both medical and nursing perspectives. He currently serves Patients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island and uses both office visits and tele-psychiatry to provide easy, affordable and convenient psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
Robert Terrelonge, APRN, PMHNP is a licensed Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in private practice in New York. He provides treatment for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. As a Nurse Practitioner, Mr. Terrelonge sees patients independently and offers many of the same services as a Psychiatrist, yet combines both medical and nursing perspectives. He currently serves Patients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island and uses both office visits and tele-psychiatry to provide easy, affordable and convenient psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Annette Vallano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Times of change and uncertainty can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves and others. Anxiety, depression and stress reactions can become common experiences. Psychotherapy offers opportunities to increase your understanding of why and how this happens as well as what to do about it. I work within an interpersonal and analytic perspective while incorporating the well known benefits of mindulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This combination creates curiosity, self-discovery and change. My style is warm, collaborative and flexible. You will find me actively involved rather than silent or distant.
Times of change and uncertainty can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from ourselves and others. Anxiety, depression and stress reactions can become common experiences. Psychotherapy offers opportunities to increase your understanding of why and how this happens as well as what to do about it. I work within an interpersonal and analytic perspective while incorporating the well known benefits of mindulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This combination creates curiosity, self-discovery and change. My style is warm, collaborative and flexible. You will find me actively involved rather than silent or distant.

Ingrid Luna NP in Psychiatry, PLLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
West Islip, NY 11795
Are you experiencing symptoms that may be causing unwanted stressors in your daily life? Let's have a conversation about it! I am here to help you. As a holistic and client-centered practitioner, we will build a therapeutic relationship and discuss medication management and treatment options. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and mood disorders. Together we will develop an individualized treatment plan to assist you to obtain your goals and restore your optimal level of functioning.
Are you experiencing symptoms that may be causing unwanted stressors in your daily life? Let's have a conversation about it! I am here to help you. As a holistic and client-centered practitioner, we will build a therapeutic relationship and discuss medication management and treatment options. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and mood disorders. Together we will develop an individualized treatment plan to assist you to obtain your goals and restore your optimal level of functioning.

Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wantagh, NY 11793
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.

I specialize in state-of-the-art, outpatient treatment of stress, anxiety and depression in adults, adolescents and children. I also have extensive experience treating patients with ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorders. Most of my patients work, go to school and are able to live their lives, but have some issues that interfere with their day-to-day lives. Other patients have more significant distress. I can customize each person's treatment with what he or she needs, whether it is with interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy or medication.
I specialize in state-of-the-art, outpatient treatment of stress, anxiety and depression in adults, adolescents and children. I also have extensive experience treating patients with ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorders. Most of my patients work, go to school and are able to live their lives, but have some issues that interfere with their day-to-day lives. Other patients have more significant distress. I can customize each person's treatment with what he or she needs, whether it is with interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy or medication.
See more therapy options for 11581
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 11581
10+
Average cost per session
$187
Psychiatrists in 11581 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
81% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
73% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
73% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 11581 see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 11581?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.