Psychiatrists in 12866

Patricia Ann Ford
Psychiatric Nurse, NPP
2 Endorsed
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
I received my Bachelors and Masters of Arts in Psychology and Health Communications from the State University of New York at Albany. I received my Masters of Science Degree in Nursing from the Sage Colleges. I am a board certified Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner and I also hold a current certification in College Health Nursing.
I received my Bachelors and Masters of Arts in Psychology and Health Communications from the State University of New York at Albany. I received my Masters of Science Degree in Nursing from the Sage Colleges. I am a board certified Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner and I also hold a current certification in College Health Nursing.
(518) 631-5531 View (518) 631-5531
Kimberly L' Heureux
Psychiatric Nurse, NPP
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
I received my Masters of Science Degree in Nursing from the Sage Colleges in Troy, New York. I am certified as an Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have 28 yrs of practical, hands-on experience working with patients in a variety of mental health settings. With my vast experience in addressing the mental health needs of patients, I possess a comprehensive knowledge of mental health issues and challenges for both the individual and the family. My advanced education and diverse background, enables me to provide an optimal healing environment for the individual.
I received my Masters of Science Degree in Nursing from the Sage Colleges in Troy, New York. I am certified as an Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have 28 yrs of practical, hands-on experience working with patients in a variety of mental health settings. With my vast experience in addressing the mental health needs of patients, I possess a comprehensive knowledge of mental health issues and challenges for both the individual and the family. My advanced education and diverse background, enables me to provide an optimal healing environment for the individual.
(518) 539-1329 View (518) 539-1329
Photo of Rebekah P. Nelson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Rebekah P. Nelson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Rebekah helps parents who are seeking expert guidance in medication management for their child whether it be for behavioral concerns, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, anxiety, or depression. Parents need accurate information, to understand of benefits and risks, and support in making informed decisions. The goal is to optimize treatment, address specific challenges, and ensure their child's well-being. Rebekah offers knowledge, personalized recommendations, and ongoing support to empower parents in making informed decisions for their child's care. Together, they strive for the best possible outcomes for the child's neurodevelopmental journey.
Rebekah helps parents who are seeking expert guidance in medication management for their child whether it be for behavioral concerns, Autism Spectrum, ADHD, anxiety, or depression. Parents need accurate information, to understand of benefits and risks, and support in making informed decisions. The goal is to optimize treatment, address specific challenges, and ensure their child's well-being. Rebekah offers knowledge, personalized recommendations, and ongoing support to empower parents in making informed decisions for their child's care. Together, they strive for the best possible outcomes for the child's neurodevelopmental journey.
(518) 765-7039 View (518) 765-7039
Photo of Elizabeth Mastro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Elizabeth Mastro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Elizabeth Mastro, NPP ANCC Board Certified Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner -Elizabeth received her Master's Degree and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification from Sage Graduate School. She has experience working in clinic settings with chronically mentally ill adults as well as in private practice providing psychopharmacology and therapy addressing all facets of mental health disorders.
Elizabeth Mastro, NPP ANCC Board Certified Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner -Elizabeth received her Master's Degree and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification from Sage Graduate School. She has experience working in clinic settings with chronically mentally ill adults as well as in private practice providing psychopharmacology and therapy addressing all facets of mental health disorders.
(518) 255-8108 View (518) 255-8108
Photo of Ceci Hayes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Ceci Hayes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Ceci Hayes is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 25-years of experience as a registered nurse and over 18-years of experience in mental health. Her goals are to assist individuals achieve their personal and professional aspirations and aid in removing the stigma associated with mental illness. Ceci's approach includes medication management, psycho-educational learning, psychotherapy encompassing DBT, CBT, group and individual therapy. This holistic approach includes exploring biological, social, emotional, occupational, financial, environmental, intellectual, and spiritual factors.
Ceci Hayes is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 25-years of experience as a registered nurse and over 18-years of experience in mental health. Her goals are to assist individuals achieve their personal and professional aspirations and aid in removing the stigma associated with mental illness. Ceci's approach includes medication management, psycho-educational learning, psychotherapy encompassing DBT, CBT, group and individual therapy. This holistic approach includes exploring biological, social, emotional, occupational, financial, environmental, intellectual, and spiritual factors.
(518) 245-3288 View (518) 245-3288
Photo of Bick Wanck, Psychiatrist, MD
Bick Wanck
Psychiatrist, MD
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Our practice is located at 401 Geyser Road, Saratoga Springs, NY with 12 mental health practitioners - therapists as well as prescribers - with an emphasis on psychotherapy and counseling. Please visit our website: www.bickwanckmdandassociates.com or contact the office at 518 583-3035 for further information. We accept commercial insurance only - no Medicare or Medicaid plans. You can also check out Bick’s author website at www.bickwanckmd.com to check out blogs and links to his book Mind Easing: the 3-layered healing plan for anxiety and depression.
Our practice is located at 401 Geyser Road, Saratoga Springs, NY with 12 mental health practitioners - therapists as well as prescribers - with an emphasis on psychotherapy and counseling. Please visit our website: www.bickwanckmdandassociates.com or contact the office at 518 583-3035 for further information. We accept commercial insurance only - no Medicare or Medicaid plans. You can also check out Bick’s author website at www.bickwanckmd.com to check out blogs and links to his book Mind Easing: the 3-layered healing plan for anxiety and depression.
(518) 650-3364 View (518) 650-3364
Photo of Marjorie Russell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Marjorie Russell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am credentialed to prescribe medications when indicated. My experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Mood Disorders, and many other Mental Health issues that prevent a person from leading a happy and healthy life.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I am credentialed to prescribe medications when indicated. My experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Mood Disorders, and many other Mental Health issues that prevent a person from leading a happy and healthy life.
(518) 333-7915 View (518) 333-7915
Photo of Jeanne Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP-BC, PMHNP, RN
Jeanne Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP-BC, PMHNP, RN
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Kids, preteens, teens, young adults, college students, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, attention, mood, focus, and decision making. I will thoroughly assess, diagnose, and provide treatment options in order to help you reach your goals as well as your potential in life.
Kids, preteens, teens, young adults, college students, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, attention, mood, focus, and decision making. I will thoroughly assess, diagnose, and provide treatment options in order to help you reach your goals as well as your potential in life.
(518) 667-8029 View (518) 667-8029
Photo of Brianna Rader, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Brianna Rader
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Online Only
Brianna Rader, NPP received her master's degree from Sage Graduate School. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of New York. Previous experience as an in-patient RN in Crisis and Behavioral Health. Served active duty in the United States Army as a health care specialist.
Brianna Rader, NPP received her master's degree from Sage Graduate School. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of New York. Previous experience as an in-patient RN in Crisis and Behavioral Health. Served active duty in the United States Army as a health care specialist.
(518) 666-8872 View (518) 666-8872
Photo of Rebecca Gillingham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Rebecca Gillingham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Compassionate and dedicated board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing high-quality, empathetic, comprehensive, realistic and evidence-based care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Proficient in psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. Skilled at working with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, prescribe psychiatric medications, and provide psychotherapeutic support to individuals across the lifespan.
Compassionate and dedicated board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing high-quality, empathetic, comprehensive, realistic and evidence-based care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Proficient in psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. Skilled at working with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, prescribe psychiatric medications, and provide psychotherapeutic support to individuals across the lifespan.
(518) 348-4456 View (518) 348-4456
Photo of Amarjot Surdhar, Psychiatrist, MD
Amarjot Surdhar
Psychiatrist, MD
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Hello, I am a double board-certified and licensed psychiatrist with lots of experience helping people in difficult situations. I work in a Psychiatric emergency room and routinely handle behavioral crises. As a Medical Director of a Substance Use Disorders Clinic in an academic teaching hospital, I have experience in helping people with multiple drug and alcohol problems. I routinely work with people and help them through anxiety, depression, mood, and psychosis issues. I can help you also.
Hello, I am a double board-certified and licensed psychiatrist with lots of experience helping people in difficult situations. I work in a Psychiatric emergency room and routinely handle behavioral crises. As a Medical Director of a Substance Use Disorders Clinic in an academic teaching hospital, I have experience in helping people with multiple drug and alcohol problems. I routinely work with people and help them through anxiety, depression, mood, and psychosis issues. I can help you also.
(516) 252-3132 View (516) 252-3132
Photo of Erin McCarthy Shaw, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Erin McCarthy Shaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
ADHD? Autism? Giftedness? Dyslexia? Twice-exceptional? If you are tired of guessing, you are in the right place. Maybe you or your child has always felt a bit different: vividly creative, attuned to tiny details, moved by sounds, textures, or ideas in ways others miss. Yet routines may drain you, crowded spaces feel too loud, and deadlines slip by no matter how hard you try. Your brain has worked overtime just to keep up. Now you want real answers, and I am here to help you find them.
ADHD? Autism? Giftedness? Dyslexia? Twice-exceptional? If you are tired of guessing, you are in the right place. Maybe you or your child has always felt a bit different: vividly creative, attuned to tiny details, moved by sounds, textures, or ideas in ways others miss. Yet routines may drain you, crowded spaces feel too loud, and deadlines slip by no matter how hard you try. Your brain has worked overtime just to keep up. Now you want real answers, and I am here to help you find them.
(518) 662-7001 View (518) 662-7001
Photo of Eloise Marie Palmisano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, BC
Eloise Marie Palmisano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
I am Eloise Palmisano a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been a Registered Nurse for 30 years with many years of practice Mental Health and various types of practice. In 2009 I became a Nurse Practitioner, graduated from Sage College in Troy New York. My practice is private I specialize in Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders including Binge Eating and Major Depressive Disorders. My patients should be engaged in therapy with a therapist and must be compliant with my treatment plan. I treat adults from the age of 18 to 80. I am available for new patients .
I am Eloise Palmisano a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been a Registered Nurse for 30 years with many years of practice Mental Health and various types of practice. In 2009 I became a Nurse Practitioner, graduated from Sage College in Troy New York. My practice is private I specialize in Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders including Binge Eating and Major Depressive Disorders. My patients should be engaged in therapy with a therapist and must be compliant with my treatment plan. I treat adults from the age of 18 to 80. I am available for new patients .
(518) 621-4792 View (518) 621-4792
Photo of Dr. Shawn Faust, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Sarah Covert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Sarah Covert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
During this unprecedented time, mental health treatment is more important then ever. I am here to be your partner in health and well-being. I am a masters prepared, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am able to prescribe medications & provide treatment for individuals. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD & mood disorders. I have additional training in the pre/postnatal population. I develop holistic treatment recommendations which are based on the most up to date evidence, as well as individual needs.
During this unprecedented time, mental health treatment is more important then ever. I am here to be your partner in health and well-being. I am a masters prepared, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am able to prescribe medications & provide treatment for individuals. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD & mood disorders. I have additional training in the pre/postnatal population. I develop holistic treatment recommendations which are based on the most up to date evidence, as well as individual needs.
(518) 348-4387 View (518) 348-4387
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Dageria Brooks, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Dageria Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You are looking for help and before you decide where to turn you have done your research. Trying to find the right person, the right fit to help you get to where you want to go. You want to feel normal and happy within yourself because you are tired of how you are feeling. Therefore seeking mental treatment is first step to your ideal self.
You are looking for help and before you decide where to turn you have done your research. Trying to find the right person, the right fit to help you get to where you want to go. You want to feel normal and happy within yourself because you are tired of how you are feeling. Therefore seeking mental treatment is first step to your ideal self.
(516) 788-5384 View (516) 788-5384
Photo of Sarah Camardello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Sarah Camardello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Serves Area
My name is Sarah, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating both children and adults with various mental health concerns, and my focus is on empowering my patients to achieve balance and reach their full potential. My personalized treatment plans aim to help patients with the following conditions: Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Bipolar disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and more.
My name is Sarah, and I am a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating both children and adults with various mental health concerns, and my focus is on empowering my patients to achieve balance and reach their full potential. My personalized treatment plans aim to help patients with the following conditions: Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Bipolar disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and more.
(518) 760-6682 View (518) 760-6682
Alexander E Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
***Tele-psychiatry Offered***Children and Adults*** Medications&Therapy (therapy limited to adults-and based on availability) I take the perspective that we are all complex and should appreciate and understand as best we can the complexity rather than the view that mere molecules alone are affecting our emotional states. I aim to provide what I would expect in my own care or my child's care: an active, present, and compassionate clinician who tries to understand the person or child seeking help and assisting in choosing the best paths for my health, both physical and emotional.
***Tele-psychiatry Offered***Children and Adults*** Medications&Therapy (therapy limited to adults-and based on availability) I take the perspective that we are all complex and should appreciate and understand as best we can the complexity rather than the view that mere molecules alone are affecting our emotional states. I aim to provide what I would expect in my own care or my child's care: an active, present, and compassionate clinician who tries to understand the person or child seeking help and assisting in choosing the best paths for my health, both physical and emotional.
(518) 882-4198 View (518) 882-4198
Photo of Rachael G Morey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Rachael G Morey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
Rachael Morey is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing medication management and supportive psychotherapy. She specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents,​ and adults. Her goals include promoting mental health across the lifespan, with a focus on vulnerable populations. It is her mission to develop a trusting, respectful and collaborative relationship with each client she treats. Rachael takes a holistic approach to the care she provides while addressing social, physical, and biological components, to navigate client-focused goals and individualized treatment recommendations.
Rachael Morey is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing medication management and supportive psychotherapy. She specializes in the treatment of children, adolescents,​ and adults. Her goals include promoting mental health across the lifespan, with a focus on vulnerable populations. It is her mission to develop a trusting, respectful and collaborative relationship with each client she treats. Rachael takes a holistic approach to the care she provides while addressing social, physical, and biological components, to navigate client-focused goals and individualized treatment recommendations.
(518) 241-5819 View (518) 241-5819

See more therapy options for 12866

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 12866

40+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 12866 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
88% Depression
83% ADHD
83% Medication Management
78% Bipolar Disorder
73% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
63% CDPHP
59% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 12866 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 12866?

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.