Psychiatrists in 11720

Photo of Kathleen A Bowen, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen A Bowen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
I am a board certified family psychiatric /mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with prescriptive privileges. I graduated from Adelphi University, cum laude, with a BSN and earned my MS, NP from Stony Brook University, where I was awarded distinction for Overall Excellence in Psychiatric/Mental Health and inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society.
I am a board certified family psychiatric /mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with prescriptive privileges. I graduated from Adelphi University, cum laude, with a BSN and earned my MS, NP from Stony Brook University, where I was awarded distinction for Overall Excellence in Psychiatric/Mental Health and inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society.
(631) 203-1464 View (631) 203-1464

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Jennifer Maniaci Serrentino
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stony Brook, NY 11790
Jennifer Serrentino, MD is a board certified psychiatrist who has been practicing psychiatry for over nineteen years. She received her medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1997. Dr. Serrentino performed her psychiatry residency at the Bellevue Hospital Center/New York University program where she was appointed chief resident in her graduating year. Upon graduation in 2001, she stayed on as an attending psychiatrist in the Bellevue Hospital Psychiatric Outpatient Department.
Jennifer Serrentino, MD is a board certified psychiatrist who has been practicing psychiatry for over nineteen years. She received her medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1997. Dr. Serrentino performed her psychiatry residency at the Bellevue Hospital Center/New York University program where she was appointed chief resident in her graduating year. Upon graduation in 2001, she stayed on as an attending psychiatrist in the Bellevue Hospital Psychiatric Outpatient Department.
(631) 693-5499 View (631) 693-5499
Photo of Chris Karampahtsis, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Chris Karampahtsis
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA
Verified Verified
Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776  (Online Only)
Chris Karampahtsis, MD, MPH, is a Harvard trained, dually board-certified child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Currently an adjunct assistant professor of psychiatry at the NYU Long Island School of Medicine, he now brings his wealth of academic and clinical experience to seeing pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients at his private practice.
Chris Karampahtsis, MD, MPH, is a Harvard trained, dually board-certified child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Currently an adjunct assistant professor of psychiatry at the NYU Long Island School of Medicine, he now brings his wealth of academic and clinical experience to seeing pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients at his private practice.
(516) 206-8649 View (516) 206-8649
Photo of Dr. Alana Ribowsky, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Alana Ribowsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stony Brook, NY 11790
Hello and welcome to my profile! I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Columbia University in Psychiatry and am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, insomnia, bipolar, and psychotic-spectrum disorders. I take a holistic approach to psychiatry and work to help with burn out and stress to best assist individuals to flourish in their daily lives.
Hello and welcome to my profile! I have a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Columbia University in Psychiatry and am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults in multiple settings facing various complex mental health issues, including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, insomnia, bipolar, and psychotic-spectrum disorders. I take a holistic approach to psychiatry and work to help with burn out and stress to best assist individuals to flourish in their daily lives.
(347) 218-9654 View (347) 218-9654
Photo of Christine Edmondson, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christine Edmondson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Coram, NY 11727
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of adults with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I offer a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, individual psychotherapy and medication management. My goal is to ensure that I carefully assess your circumstance before arriving at an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. I am also a NYS Medical Marijuana provider.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of adults with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. I offer a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, individual psychotherapy and medication management. My goal is to ensure that I carefully assess your circumstance before arriving at an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. I am also a NYS Medical Marijuana provider.
(718) 831-6375 View (718) 831-6375
Photo of Arvenia Swan, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Arvenia Swan
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Medford, NY 11763
Often in life through no fault of our own are overwhelmed and may become depressed or anxious. Sometimes our family and friends do not understand. It is difficult to know where to turn or where to find help. With 20+ years working in the field of mental health, I understand and can help.
Often in life through no fault of our own are overwhelmed and may become depressed or anxious. Sometimes our family and friends do not understand. It is difficult to know where to turn or where to find help. With 20+ years working in the field of mental health, I understand and can help.
(631) 693-1428 View (631) 693-1428
Photo of Kristen Carman, PMHNP, RN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kristen Carman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holbrook, NY 11741
Hi, I'm Kristen Carman, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and lifelong Long Islander with a true passion for mental health care. With 18 years of nursing experience—including a decade in chemical dependency—I bring both compassion and expertise to every patient interaction at Compass NP in Psychiatry. Whether you're facing mild challenges or more complex issues, I’m dedicated to delivering the transformative, evidence-based care you deserve.
Hi, I'm Kristen Carman, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and lifelong Long Islander with a true passion for mental health care. With 18 years of nursing experience—including a decade in chemical dependency—I bring both compassion and expertise to every patient interaction at Compass NP in Psychiatry. Whether you're facing mild challenges or more complex issues, I’m dedicated to delivering the transformative, evidence-based care you deserve.
(631) 202-1716 View (631) 202-1716
Photo of Lucian Manu, MD, Psychiatrist
Lucian Manu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stony Brook, NY 11794
Lucian Manu, M.D. is a board-certified psychiatrist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine. He is the Director of Neuromodulation in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, and the Founding Director of the Stony Brook Treatment Resistant Depression Program - a research and clinical service program for individuals suffering from complicated and difficult-to-treat mood disorders. Dr. Manu has published in peer reviewed journals such as the Brain Stimulation Journal, NPJ Schizophrenia, and Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment.
Lucian Manu, M.D. is a board-certified psychiatrist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine. He is the Director of Neuromodulation in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, and the Founding Director of the Stony Brook Treatment Resistant Depression Program - a research and clinical service program for individuals suffering from complicated and difficult-to-treat mood disorders. Dr. Manu has published in peer reviewed journals such as the Brain Stimulation Journal, NPJ Schizophrenia, and Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment.
(516) 862-4868 View (516) 862-4868
Photo of Dr. Michelle Curro - Stat Psychiatry PC, DO, Psychiatrist
Stat Psychiatry PC
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Farmingville, NY 11738
Stat Psych is Long Island's premier outpatient psychiatric group. In our community, the demand for mental health treatment is so great that it has become common to have to wait several months for an initial appointment with an outpatient psychiatrist. At Stat Psych, we prioritize efficient treatment and take pride in offering flexible scheduling options. We perform comprehensive evaluations, provide appropriate referrals to therapy and prescribe medication when appropriate.
Stat Psych is Long Island's premier outpatient psychiatric group. In our community, the demand for mental health treatment is so great that it has become common to have to wait several months for an initial appointment with an outpatient psychiatrist. At Stat Psych, we prioritize efficient treatment and take pride in offering flexible scheduling options. We perform comprehensive evaluations, provide appropriate referrals to therapy and prescribe medication when appropriate.
(631) 894-9373 View (631) 894-9373
Photo of Melinda Clarke, MS, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melinda Clarke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, NP
Verified Verified
Stony Brook, NY 11790
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client is someone who's navigating through tough times in their life, and feeling stuck amidst it all. They're keen on learning coping skills to tackle life's curveballs, and are open to medication management if it fits their needs. The goal? To find happiness and wellness, with a guiding hand to help them through.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my ideal client is someone who's navigating through tough times in their life, and feeling stuck amidst it all. They're keen on learning coping skills to tackle life's curveballs, and are open to medication management if it fits their needs. The goal? To find happiness and wellness, with a guiding hand to help them through.
(631) 900-2636 View (631) 900-2636
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Telepsychiatry Services in Suffolk, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatry Services in Suffolk
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holbrook, NY 11741  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare). I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems, dysphoria or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare). I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems, dysphoria or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
(631) 801-0807 View (631) 801-0807
Long Island psychiatric services-NP in psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hauppauge, NY 11749
My years of professional experience in both psychiatry and psychotherapy taught me that there is more to the medical issues that we experience. While it is essential for me to relieve symptoms with medications, I am also committed to holistic care. Together, we will work to develop the best treatment for you. My approach: help you to gain understanding of the underlying issues, which compromise your health, and optimize your emotional well-being. You can expect me to: *Take medical and psychiatric histories * Diagnose and offer the level of care. * Prescribe medications * Empower you to make well-informed decisions.
My years of professional experience in both psychiatry and psychotherapy taught me that there is more to the medical issues that we experience. While it is essential for me to relieve symptoms with medications, I am also committed to holistic care. Together, we will work to develop the best treatment for you. My approach: help you to gain understanding of the underlying issues, which compromise your health, and optimize your emotional well-being. You can expect me to: *Take medical and psychiatric histories * Diagnose and offer the level of care. * Prescribe medications * Empower you to make well-informed decisions.
(631) 993-4196 View (631) 993-4196
Photo of Brian Ghezelaiagh - Brookhaven Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Brookhaven Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stony Brook, NY 11790
When you are struggling with mental health troubles everything just feels harder. My goal is to work with you on your unique path to recovery, and help you stay there.
When you are struggling with mental health troubles everything just feels harder. My goal is to work with you on your unique path to recovery, and help you stay there.
(631) 904-5415 View (631) 904-5415
Photo of Dr. Saira Pasha, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Saira Pasha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stony Brook, NY 11794  (Online Only)
Look no further! Dr. Pasha is committed to providing exceptional care and support to help her patients achieve optimal mental health and overall well-being. As a compassionate psychiatrist, she offers a comprehensive range of services, including medication management, therapy, health coaching, and a holistic approach to health and wellness.
Look no further! Dr. Pasha is committed to providing exceptional care and support to help her patients achieve optimal mental health and overall well-being. As a compassionate psychiatrist, she offers a comprehensive range of services, including medication management, therapy, health coaching, and a holistic approach to health and wellness.
(631) 801-4758 View (631) 801-4758
Photo of Elizabeth Cohen, MS, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth Cohen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Stony Brook, NY 11790
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Binge Eating, Alcohol Abuse, Bariatric Evaluations, Menapausal Symptoms & Insomnia. I enjoy working with teens and adults by helping them navigate through current issues. I believe strongly in treating my patients as a "whole person". Your consultation may include: Diagnostics testing such as Lab work , Genetic testing , Written screening tools. Solution Focused treatment includes: Diet / Behavior Lifestyle Modifications, Vitamin Therapy, and Medications as deemed appropriate.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Binge Eating, Alcohol Abuse, Bariatric Evaluations, Menapausal Symptoms & Insomnia. I enjoy working with teens and adults by helping them navigate through current issues. I believe strongly in treating my patients as a "whole person". Your consultation may include: Diagnostics testing such as Lab work , Genetic testing , Written screening tools. Solution Focused treatment includes: Diet / Behavior Lifestyle Modifications, Vitamin Therapy, and Medications as deemed appropriate.
(631) 791-6801 View (631) 791-6801
Robert C Glenn
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776  (Online Only)
We know patients need a comprehensive and individualized approach to their mental health care. This includes thorough assessments to understand their specific conditions, personalized treatment plans that may involve therapy and medication, and a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Ongoing follow-up and family involvement can further enhance their recovery, ensuring that patients feel understood, empowered, and supported throughout their journey. Most of all, you need relief from your symptoms. That's why our team exists, to support you and make sure you get better.
We know patients need a comprehensive and individualized approach to their mental health care. This includes thorough assessments to understand their specific conditions, personalized treatment plans that may involve therapy and medication, and a supportive, non-judgmental environment. Ongoing follow-up and family involvement can further enhance their recovery, ensuring that patients feel understood, empowered, and supported throughout their journey. Most of all, you need relief from your symptoms. That's why our team exists, to support you and make sure you get better.
(516) 646-3078 View (516) 646-3078
Photo of Richard Pitch, MD, Psychiatrist
Richard Pitch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Medford, NY 11763
I am accepting new patients for ONLY FOR TMS THERAPY and NEUROFEEDBACK. (I am sorry--the medication and psychotherapy practice is full.) We at Long Island Neurocare Therapy are the most experienced TMS practice on Long Island. TMS is a, drug-free treatment procedure, although patients can remain on medications that have been helpful to them. It is FDA approved for patients with Major Depressive Disorder who have not had satisfactory results from antidepressant drugs. TMS is non-invasive and NOT associated with any systemic side effects including memory problems, weight gain, or sexual dysfunction.
I am accepting new patients for ONLY FOR TMS THERAPY and NEUROFEEDBACK. (I am sorry--the medication and psychotherapy practice is full.) We at Long Island Neurocare Therapy are the most experienced TMS practice on Long Island. TMS is a, drug-free treatment procedure, although patients can remain on medications that have been helpful to them. It is FDA approved for patients with Major Depressive Disorder who have not had satisfactory results from antidepressant drugs. TMS is non-invasive and NOT associated with any systemic side effects including memory problems, weight gain, or sexual dysfunction.
(631) 714-4100 View (631) 714-4100
Photo of Robert Wilson, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert Wilson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Dr. Wilson, a licensed psychiatrist with a passion for helping people feel their best! My background includes an undergraduate degree in human nutrition and Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. I specialize in medication management and provide convenient virtual sessions to fit your busy life!
Hello! I'm Dr. Wilson, a licensed psychiatrist with a passion for helping people feel their best! My background includes an undergraduate degree in human nutrition and Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. I specialize in medication management and provide convenient virtual sessions to fit your busy life!
(516) 447-4691 View (516) 447-4691
Photo of Georgia Kelly-Williams, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Georgia Kelly-Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stony Brook, NY 11790  (Online Only)
My work includes helping individuals who may be having a difficult time managing life's challenges as well as dealing with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or other mental illnesses. I look forward to collaborating with you as you actively seek to begin your healing journey through medication management and or therapy.
My work includes helping individuals who may be having a difficult time managing life's challenges as well as dealing with depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or other mental illnesses. I look forward to collaborating with you as you actively seek to begin your healing journey through medication management and or therapy.
(631) 529-6913 View (631) 529-6913
Photo of Shaneel Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Shaneel Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stony Brook, NY 11794
I completed my psychiatry residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. After residency, I went on to have a 2-year fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Mt. Sinai St. Luke's Hospital in NYC. Besides being in private practice, I am a professor at Stony Brook University where I supervise residents and medical students. I also serve as a psychiatrist in United States Army Reserve. While I believe in the importance of accurate diagnosis, I think people are much more than a diagnosis and require treatment that is individualized to their needs and circumstances.
I completed my psychiatry residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. After residency, I went on to have a 2-year fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Mt. Sinai St. Luke's Hospital in NYC. Besides being in private practice, I am a professor at Stony Brook University where I supervise residents and medical students. I also serve as a psychiatrist in United States Army Reserve. While I believe in the importance of accurate diagnosis, I think people are much more than a diagnosis and require treatment that is individualized to their needs and circumstances.
(631) 515-6721 View (631) 515-6721

See more therapy options for 11720

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 11720

< 10

Psychiatrists in 11720 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Grief

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% 1199SEIU
100% Aetna
100% Wellpoint | Amerigroup

How Psychiatrists in 11720 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 11720?

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.