Psychiatrists in 13090

Photo of Alexis Dmytryk, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Dmytryk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello everyone! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with extensive experience in mental health. I treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar d/o, PTSD, Schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, eating disorder, mood disorder, insomnia and other mental conditions. My background encompasses a wide range of outpatient and inpatient settings and treatment modalities. My approach to care is rooted in compassion and informed by the latest evidence-based practices. I am practicing from my office as well as online via telemedicine. Remember that you are not alone. I'm here to listen and support you.
Hello everyone! I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with extensive experience in mental health. I treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar d/o, PTSD, Schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, eating disorder, mood disorder, insomnia and other mental conditions. My background encompasses a wide range of outpatient and inpatient settings and treatment modalities. My approach to care is rooted in compassion and informed by the latest evidence-based practices. I am practicing from my office as well as online via telemedicine. Remember that you are not alone. I'm here to listen and support you.
(315) 707-4008 View (315) 707-4008

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Judith H. Fager, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, ANP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judith H. Fager
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, ANP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Judith H. Fager is a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP), who runs her private practice with a wealth of experience in the field of psychiatry. Judith provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to her patients. As a Psychiatric NP, Judith holds advanced degrees in nursing and specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Her practice encompasses a broad range of services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, therapy, and counseling. Judith adopts a patient-centered approach, actively listening to her patients' concerns.
Judith H. Fager is a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP), who runs her private practice with a wealth of experience in the field of psychiatry. Judith provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to her patients. As a Psychiatric NP, Judith holds advanced degrees in nursing and specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Her practice encompasses a broad range of services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, therapy, and counseling. Judith adopts a patient-centered approach, actively listening to her patients' concerns.
(315) 754-9793 View (315) 754-9793
Photo of Xingjia Cui - New York Holistic Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
New York Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatrist with 30 years of clinical experience in treating different mental diseases including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, etc. in different settings and cultures. I attended Southeastern University Medical School in Nanjing, China and did my residency at Strong Memorial Hospital of University of Rochester and my fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital of Harvard Medical School. With my extensive training and experience, I can help you successfully deal with any mental health challenges you are facing.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with 30 years of clinical experience in treating different mental diseases including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, etc. in different settings and cultures. I attended Southeastern University Medical School in Nanjing, China and did my residency at Strong Memorial Hospital of University of Rochester and my fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital of Harvard Medical School. With my extensive training and experience, I can help you successfully deal with any mental health challenges you are facing.
(646) 969-7763 View (646) 969-7763
Photo of Kola Alao - Syracuse TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Syracuse TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Trans-cranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that targets key areas of the brain that are less active in people with moderate to severe depression. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression, and it’s typically used when other treatments haven’t allowed you to experience remission from your depression. TMS is also being used for Anxiety, ADD, PTSD and is rapidly being considered by insurance companies for coverage outside of the current provision for moderate to severe depression. We have locations Fayetteville and Baldwinsville NY.
Trans-cranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that targets key areas of the brain that are less active in people with moderate to severe depression. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression, and it’s typically used when other treatments haven’t allowed you to experience remission from your depression. TMS is also being used for Anxiety, ADD, PTSD and is rapidly being considered by insurance companies for coverage outside of the current provision for moderate to severe depression. We have locations Fayetteville and Baldwinsville NY.
(315) 743-0988 View (315) 743-0988
Photo of Kristina M Moss Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse
Kristina M Moss Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MS, NPP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Now accepting new patients! Finding the right match, the one person you feel like you can truly trust to tell your story to is one of the biggest challenges in finding someone to help you. Today, I accept this challenge. My name is Kristina Moss and I am proud to have been trained locally at the University of Rochester. I have over 17 years of experience with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including the hospital, outpatient clinics and private practice.
Now accepting new patients! Finding the right match, the one person you feel like you can truly trust to tell your story to is one of the biggest challenges in finding someone to help you. Today, I accept this challenge. My name is Kristina Moss and I am proud to have been trained locally at the University of Rochester. I have over 17 years of experience with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings including the hospital, outpatient clinics and private practice.
(585) 270-6411 View (585) 270-6411
Photo of Francesca Jean, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francesca Jean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients for therapy and medication management appointments. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with clinical experience in various settings and a broad range of mental health and psychiatric experiences. I use an eclectic and integrated style that blends elements of psychoanalysis, trauma informed care, and mindfulness. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological challenges related to traumatic events, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I use a collaborative approach that caters to each patient’s needs while combining interpersonal approaches.
I am currently accepting new patients for therapy and medication management appointments. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with clinical experience in various settings and a broad range of mental health and psychiatric experiences. I use an eclectic and integrated style that blends elements of psychoanalysis, trauma informed care, and mindfulness. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological challenges related to traumatic events, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I use a collaborative approach that caters to each patient’s needs while combining interpersonal approaches.
(315) 512-2596 View (315) 512-2596
Photo of Sonya L Sariego, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sonya L Sariego
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My philosophy towards mental health treatment is grounded in the belief that it is a collaborative and non-judgmental process, where each individual’s unique experiences and perspectives are valued. I view mental health care as a team effort, recognizing that effective treatment involves not only the expertise of healthcare professionals but also the active participation and insights of the individuals they serve.
My philosophy towards mental health treatment is grounded in the belief that it is a collaborative and non-judgmental process, where each individual’s unique experiences and perspectives are valued. I view mental health care as a team effort, recognizing that effective treatment involves not only the expertise of healthcare professionals but also the active participation and insights of the individuals they serve.
(607) 303-5512 View (607) 303-5512
Photo of Katrina Millard, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katrina Millard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Katrina and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues and Insomnia & Sleep Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Katrina and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues and Insomnia & Sleep Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 470-1524 View (929) 470-1524
Photo of Toba Omidiji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Toba Omidiji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
(718) 831-6668 View (718) 831-6668
Photo of Wura Sofowote - Upstate Medical University, Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Upstate Medical University, Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
I provide medication management in person and virtually as a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I honor my patients by working with them to choose the medication that is best suited for them. I believe in achieving more with less thereby avoiding polypharmacy. I will provide you with resources if and when I do not have what you need. I am a firm believer that it is every human's right to achieve their desired mental health goal in life. I am here to work with you and help you achieve your mental health goal. May you be happy and thrive.
I provide medication management in person and virtually as a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I honor my patients by working with them to choose the medication that is best suited for them. I believe in achieving more with less thereby avoiding polypharmacy. I will provide you with resources if and when I do not have what you need. I am a firm believer that it is every human's right to achieve their desired mental health goal in life. I am here to work with you and help you achieve your mental health goal. May you be happy and thrive.
(315) 864-6376 View (315) 864-6376
Photo of Jennifer MacQueen, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer MacQueen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jennifer and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Religion/Spirituality, Relationship Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Life Transitions, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Family Issues, Depression, Chronic Illness and Anxiety. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jennifer and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Religion/Spirituality, Relationship Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Life Transitions, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Family Issues, Depression, Chronic Illness and Anxiety. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 225-8493 View (929) 225-8493
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Serves Area
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(914) 506-5391 View (914) 506-5391
Photo of Andrew Curtin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrew Curtin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Not accepting new clients
As a former combat veteran I focus a great deal of my practice on trauma informed care and treating PTSD. My journey in the military led me to my career in nursing and later psychiatry. I have many patients that are current or former military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT's and medical staff of various disciplines. I also am very experienced with treating: anxiety, panic disorders, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
As a former combat veteran I focus a great deal of my practice on trauma informed care and treating PTSD. My journey in the military led me to my career in nursing and later psychiatry. I have many patients that are current or former military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT's and medical staff of various disciplines. I also am very experienced with treating: anxiety, panic disorders, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
(315) 291-8214 View (315) 291-8214
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(315) 631-0434 View (315) 631-0434
Photo of Jonathan Fillers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Fillers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you finding that life has become exceedingly difficult, and nothing seems to be going your way? Have you recently lost a family member, a loved one, a relationship, gotten sick, or do you feel stuck at a dead-end job? Do you have unhealthy relationships and struggle to establish boundaries and set standards for yourself? Do you currently lack effective coping skills or are you making unhealthy lifestyle choices? If you strive for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life, but are struggling to navigate through all of life's challenges, I can help guide you through.
Are you finding that life has become exceedingly difficult, and nothing seems to be going your way? Have you recently lost a family member, a loved one, a relationship, gotten sick, or do you feel stuck at a dead-end job? Do you have unhealthy relationships and struggle to establish boundaries and set standards for yourself? Do you currently lack effective coping skills or are you making unhealthy lifestyle choices? If you strive for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life, but are struggling to navigate through all of life's challenges, I can help guide you through.
(607) 400-6942 View (607) 400-6942
Photo of Brenda Lis, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Lis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Having grown up in an economically disadvantaged community, I witnessed the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their families; and having raised three children on my own, I know what it is to struggle. My experiences fueled my passion for mental health care, and I bring this empathy and understanding to every patient interaction. I am deeply committed to helping my patients overcome their challenges and treating each individual with the same care and attention I would give to my own loved ones.
Having grown up in an economically disadvantaged community, I witnessed the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their families; and having raised three children on my own, I know what it is to struggle. My experiences fueled my passion for mental health care, and I bring this empathy and understanding to every patient interaction. I am deeply committed to helping my patients overcome their challenges and treating each individual with the same care and attention I would give to my own loved ones.
(716) 354-1077 View (716) 354-1077
Photo of Adekola Alao - TMS Restoration Psychiatry, MD, FACL, Psychiatrist
TMS Restoration Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, FACL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NY 13066
We are professionals dedicated to providing treatment that elevates our patient’s life experience. We are located near Syracuse NY with offices in Fayetteville NY and Baldwinsville NY. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that targets key areas of the brain that are less active in people with moderate to severe depression. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression, and it’s typically used when other treatments haven’t allowed you to experience remission from your depression. TMS may also be used for other conditions.
We are professionals dedicated to providing treatment that elevates our patient’s life experience. We are located near Syracuse NY with offices in Fayetteville NY and Baldwinsville NY. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that targets key areas of the brain that are less active in people with moderate to severe depression. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression, and it’s typically used when other treatments haven’t allowed you to experience remission from your depression. TMS may also be used for other conditions.
(315) 400-4044 View (315) 400-4044
Photo of Dr. James Demer - Empire State Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Empire State Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients and takes all major insurances! James Demer, M.D, is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Notre Dame. He then completed medical school at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. Dr. Demer completed his internship and psychiatry residency at the National Capital Consortium in Washington, D.C. He completed fellowship training in Child Psychiatry at Upstate Medical University.
Accepting new patients and takes all major insurances! James Demer, M.D, is a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Notre Dame. He then completed medical school at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York. Dr. Demer completed his internship and psychiatry residency at the National Capital Consortium in Washington, D.C. He completed fellowship training in Child Psychiatry at Upstate Medical University.
(929) 493-4137 View (929) 493-4137
Photo of Angela Marie Manjgaladze, APRN, CNM, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Marie Manjgaladze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNM, PMNHP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am an experienced and passionate mental health care provider with hope to empower individuals in their own mental health care choices within a supportive network of resources. I will diligently work towards providing exceptional integrative mental health care within a trusted patient-provider relationship.
I am an experienced and passionate mental health care provider with hope to empower individuals in their own mental health care choices within a supportive network of resources. I will diligently work towards providing exceptional integrative mental health care within a trusted patient-provider relationship.
Photo of Yichao Zhang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yichao Zhang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13202
Don't let your mental illness become your identity and define who you are. I'm Yichao Zhang, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm currently accepting new clients who are looking for medication management and individual counseling for the betterment of their mental health.
Don't let your mental illness become your identity and define who you are. I'm Yichao Zhang, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm currently accepting new clients who are looking for medication management and individual counseling for the betterment of their mental health.
(315) 291-8816 View (315) 291-8816

See more therapy options for 13090

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 13090

< 10

Psychiatrists in 13090 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Eating Disorders
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Life Coaching

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BHS | Behavioral Health Systems
100% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 13090 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 13090?

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.