Psychiatrists in 13214

Photo of Alexis Dmytryk, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Dmytryk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13214
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 Whitney Simone, Psychiatrist
Whitney Simone
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you a high achieving woman who has not been feeling like herself? Do periods or perimenopause make you not recognize yourself? Are you planning a pregnancy and worrying about your mental health symptoms worsening? Are you pregnant or postpartum and unable to enjoy this stage of life because of worsening mental health? It can be so disheartening when you have worked hard to build a life, but your mind and body seem not to be cooperating to let you enjoy it. It's hard to know where to even start when trying to feel better.
Are you a high achieving woman who has not been feeling like herself? Do periods or perimenopause make you not recognize yourself? Are you planning a pregnancy and worrying about your mental health symptoms worsening? Are you pregnant or postpartum and unable to enjoy this stage of life because of worsening mental health? It can be so disheartening when you have worked hard to build a life, but your mind and body seem not to be cooperating to let you enjoy it. It's hard to know where to even start when trying to feel better.
(607) 261-7784 View (607) 261-7784
Photo of Reggie Valdemar, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reggie Valdemar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Reggie Valdemar. I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practioner. I have over 10 Years of experience assessing and treating various mental health disorders. My goal in providing care is that during each session, I will provide holistic care and work together with my clients to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Our alliance will be empathic, respectful, caring, and trust-building. We will work together to assist in discovering things about yourself. My practice cultivates room for growth or resilience. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter.
Hi, I'm Reggie Valdemar. I am a Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practioner. I have over 10 Years of experience assessing and treating various mental health disorders. My goal in providing care is that during each session, I will provide holistic care and work together with my clients to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Our alliance will be empathic, respectful, caring, and trust-building. We will work together to assist in discovering things about yourself. My practice cultivates room for growth or resilience. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter.
(631) 641-7079 View (631) 641-7079
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 Marjorie Baker Price, RN, CH, Psychiatric Nurse
Marjorie Baker Price
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, CH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Ideal clients come to me with a level of desperation after having tried unsuccessfully with some traditional psychological modalities. Clients typically need assistance with traumas and stress as well as self-care maintenance.
Ideal clients come to me with a level of desperation after having tried unsuccessfully with some traditional psychological modalities. Clients typically need assistance with traumas and stress as well as self-care maintenance.
(585) 597-7340 View (585) 597-7340
Photo of Dr. Francess George, DNP, FPMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Francess George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you or someone you know struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anger Issues, Sleep Disorders, ADHD, Mood Disorders, or any other mental or behavioral health issues? Is your mental health making it harder to spend time with your friends or family, maintain relationships or friendships, or is it making it difficult to function at your job, business, career, or school?
Do you or someone you know struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anger Issues, Sleep Disorders, ADHD, Mood Disorders, or any other mental or behavioral health issues? Is your mental health making it harder to spend time with your friends or family, maintain relationships or friendships, or is it making it difficult to function at your job, business, career, or school?
(518) 886-3639 View (518) 886-3639
Photo of Kelly Dorman, FPMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelly Dorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Sherrill, NY 13461
In order to assist her patients with the journey, she strives to meet each person right where they are in the life process. She values education and autonomy in treatment and wants her patients to know that she comes from a place free of judgement. Kelly aims to facilitate a therapeutic space where patients feel comfortable to speak at ease. Kellys treatment approach is grounded in empowering each individual with access and space to help themselves identify personal goals, address individual barriers and move forward. Her interest focuses on individual wellness & treatment optimization.
In order to assist her patients with the journey, she strives to meet each person right where they are in the life process. She values education and autonomy in treatment and wants her patients to know that she comes from a place free of judgement. Kelly aims to facilitate a therapeutic space where patients feel comfortable to speak at ease. Kellys treatment approach is grounded in empowering each individual with access and space to help themselves identify personal goals, address individual barriers and move forward. Her interest focuses on individual wellness & treatment optimization.
(315) 895-8189 View (315) 895-8189
Photo of Paige Cool, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paige Cool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I started my career at University of Rochester Medical Center and I have 10 years of experience working in psychiatry ranging from outpatient clinics to inpatient settings. I work with children and adolescents as well as adults. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I received my master’s degree from the University of Rochester. Since 2019 I have lived and worked as a nurse practitioner in Denver, Colorado and now that I am back in New York, I look forward to help you in your mental health journey.
I started my career at University of Rochester Medical Center and I have 10 years of experience working in psychiatry ranging from outpatient clinics to inpatient settings. I work with children and adolescents as well as adults. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I received my master’s degree from the University of Rochester. Since 2019 I have lived and worked as a nurse practitioner in Denver, Colorado and now that I am back in New York, I look forward to help you in your mental health journey.
(585) 648-1141 View (585) 648-1141
Photo of Nicole Walters - NestCalm, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP, PMH-C, IBCLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
NestCalm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP, PMH-C, IBCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Empowering Women to Flourish with Holistic Mental Health Care. Hi, I'm Nicole, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, midwife, reproductive specialist, fertility coach, women's mental health provider, , wife to the OG hubs; love of my life, and blessed momma of 3 sweet boys, owner of NestCalm, a psychiatry/women's health clinic. I am also an infertility conqueror, miscarriage survivor, preterm momma, postpartum anxiety defeater, pelvic floor dysfunction ass kicker, breastfeeding issues victor and ADHD overcomer! WomenWellLife / MomLife is no joke!
Empowering Women to Flourish with Holistic Mental Health Care. Hi, I'm Nicole, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, midwife, reproductive specialist, fertility coach, women's mental health provider, , wife to the OG hubs; love of my life, and blessed momma of 3 sweet boys, owner of NestCalm, a psychiatry/women's health clinic. I am also an infertility conqueror, miscarriage survivor, preterm momma, postpartum anxiety defeater, pelvic floor dysfunction ass kicker, breastfeeding issues victor and ADHD overcomer! WomenWellLife / MomLife is no joke!
(646) 332-0852 View (646) 332-0852
Photo of Suzanne Corey, FMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Suzanne Corey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FMHNP
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
I am a board-certified Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 34-years. In 2008, I returned to Upstate Medical University and was a graduate of the first program that was offered at Upstate for Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. I am very passionate about mental health and assisting others to understand their own mental health needs. I work closely with my clients to assist them in understanding their diagnosis, treatments available for their diagnosis and setting up a plan that will meet their needs best.
I am a board-certified Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 34-years. In 2008, I returned to Upstate Medical University and was a graduate of the first program that was offered at Upstate for Family Mental Health Nurse Practitioners. I am very passionate about mental health and assisting others to understand their own mental health needs. I work closely with my clients to assist them in understanding their diagnosis, treatments available for their diagnosis and setting up a plan that will meet their needs best.
(315) 887-3865 View (315) 887-3865
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
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.
View
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(315) 922-5619 View (315) 922-5619
Photo of Dr. Cecile Matip - Fulton Family Tele- Psychiatry, Online services, Psychiatrist
Fulton Family Tele- Psychiatry, Online services
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Being a mother of 6 children I know the importance of mental health and how difficult it is to find the right doctor, so I created a online private practice. One aspect of my practice involves helping patients of all ages to reassess their current medication regimen or explore the possibility of tapering off their medication. I understand that medication can be a useful tool in managing mental health symptoms, it is important to regularly reassess the effectiveness and side effects of any medication a patient is taking and evaluate the benefits and risks of their current medication to determine if any changes need to be made.
Being a mother of 6 children I know the importance of mental health and how difficult it is to find the right doctor, so I created a online private practice. One aspect of my practice involves helping patients of all ages to reassess their current medication regimen or explore the possibility of tapering off their medication. I understand that medication can be a useful tool in managing mental health symptoms, it is important to regularly reassess the effectiveness and side effects of any medication a patient is taking and evaluate the benefits and risks of their current medication to determine if any changes need to be made.
(315) 897-1473 x1 View (315) 897-1473 x1
Photo of Dr. Alden Bush, DNP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Alden Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Dr. Alden Bush, and I am a bilingual, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a doctorate from Columbia University and have extensive experience working with adults facing various mental health issues. Some of the areas I have worked intensively in include adult ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. As of this moment, however, I treat ADHD exclusively. I strongly believe in evidence-based practice and in prescribing in a manner that empowers patients. Additionally, I support precision care and may sometimes recommend pharmacogenetic testing.
My name is Dr. Alden Bush, and I am a bilingual, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I hold a doctorate from Columbia University and have extensive experience working with adults facing various mental health issues. Some of the areas I have worked intensively in include adult ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. As of this moment, however, I treat ADHD exclusively. I strongly believe in evidence-based practice and in prescribing in a manner that empowers patients. Additionally, I support precision care and may sometimes recommend pharmacogenetic testing.
(518) 809-8565 View (518) 809-8565
Photo of Sean Murphy - Sean Murphy, PMHNP, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sean Murphy, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help you improve your life. I strive to create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower my patients by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to each individual's unique experiences and aspirations.
If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help you improve your life. I strive to create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower my patients by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to each individual's unique experiences and aspirations.
(929) 325-0206 View (929) 325-0206
Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(315) 610-7966 View (315) 610-7966
Photo of Mobolaji Rosanwo, DNP, PHMNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mobolaji Rosanwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Mobolaji Rosanwo is dedicated to improving the well-being of the clients we serve through telepsychiatry and, ( in-person) mental health services when needed. We take various approaches to address each condition. We listen to their needs, understand the nature of their condition, and create the best treatment plan that is suitable for them.
Mobolaji Rosanwo is dedicated to improving the well-being of the clients we serve through telepsychiatry and, ( in-person) mental health services when needed. We take various approaches to address each condition. We listen to their needs, understand the nature of their condition, and create the best treatment plan that is suitable for them.
(410) 755-5293 View (410) 755-5293
Photo of Dr. Kamalveer Grewal, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kamalveer Grewal
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist who will begin with a comprehensive assessment to learn about your past experiences, current stressors, and future goals to develop a narrowly tailored and collaborative treatment plan. I have vast experience including Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College, attending Psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian, and PTSD Certified MDMA Therapist. My virtual private practice brings a unique blend of medical expertise and psychiatric specialization to the forefront of mental health care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist who will begin with a comprehensive assessment to learn about your past experiences, current stressors, and future goals to develop a narrowly tailored and collaborative treatment plan. I have vast experience including Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College, attending Psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian, and PTSD Certified MDMA Therapist. My virtual private practice brings a unique blend of medical expertise and psychiatric specialization to the forefront of mental health care.
(347) 712-3216 View (347) 712-3216
Photo of Asia L Todd-Peralta, PMHNP, MS, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Asia L Todd-Peralta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MS, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I have 12 years experience working in healthcare. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, concerning alcohol use, and trauma/PTSD with the goal to change harmful habits and narratives that have controlled their mental health, discover self-acceptance, and recognize their true value and potential. I provide a safe space for deep healing and life-changing care that includes medication, lifestyle interventions, sleep optimization, mindfulness, and more.
Hello! I have 12 years experience working in healthcare. I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, concerning alcohol use, and trauma/PTSD with the goal to change harmful habits and narratives that have controlled their mental health, discover self-acceptance, and recognize their true value and potential. I provide a safe space for deep healing and life-changing care that includes medication, lifestyle interventions, sleep optimization, mindfulness, and more.
(585) 207-6123 View (585) 207-6123
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

See more therapy options for 13214

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 13214

< 10

Psychiatrists in 13214 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 13214 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 13214?

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.