Psychiatrists in 14534

Photo of Kaylin Cottone, PMHNP, BC, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kaylin Cottone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Welcome! If you or your child have worked with medical professionals in the past only to be left feeling unheard or as if you're still unable to make meaningful progress, I invite you in to a new experience in healthcare & mental wellness. I bring a unique functional medicine based approach to my practice with adults & children which leads to better overall outcomes and brings hope to those that are feeling as though they are stuck. Together, we will explore the root causes of your symptoms through researched backed, cutting edge methods & determine a treatment plan that will be most effective for your individual state of health!
Welcome! If you or your child have worked with medical professionals in the past only to be left feeling unheard or as if you're still unable to make meaningful progress, I invite you in to a new experience in healthcare & mental wellness. I bring a unique functional medicine based approach to my practice with adults & children which leads to better overall outcomes and brings hope to those that are feeling as though they are stuck. Together, we will explore the root causes of your symptoms through researched backed, cutting edge methods & determine a treatment plan that will be most effective for your individual state of health!
(585) 676-3900 View (585) 676-3900
Photo of Becky Meritt, PMHNP , -BC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Becky Meritt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , -BC
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534
Becky Meritt is a trained, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Rochester, NY. Becky’s experience offers individuals a competent provider whose training & services include evaluating, diagnosing, and educating the client and family regarding mental health treatments/illnesses. Treatment can include prescribing psychotropic and relevant behavioral management strategies to support stabilization.
Becky Meritt is a trained, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner based in Rochester, NY. Becky’s experience offers individuals a competent provider whose training & services include evaluating, diagnosing, and educating the client and family regarding mental health treatments/illnesses. Treatment can include prescribing psychotropic and relevant behavioral management strategies to support stabilization.
(585) 632-4906 View (585) 632-4906
Photo of Rachelle Buchanan, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rachelle Buchanan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
I combine psychiatric evaluation, functional medicine, medication management, and therapy services to help clients achieve their goals. My passion is to help individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, and dysfunctional behaviors achieve their goals for authentic and genuine living. I specialize in neurodivergence including ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I combine psychiatric evaluation, functional medicine, medication management, and therapy services to help clients achieve their goals. My passion is to help individuals and families struggling with anxiety, depression, and dysfunctional behaviors achieve their goals for authentic and genuine living. I specialize in neurodivergence including ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(585) 595-2195 View (585) 595-2195
Photo of Adam DeNault, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam DeNault
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Adam DeNault is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over nine years of experience in the mental health field across the lifespan. He has worked with patients 8-101 years old with the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, primary psychotic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and more. In his time as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse, he has focused on improving the patient experience through partnership and client driven treatment planning.
Adam DeNault is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over nine years of experience in the mental health field across the lifespan. He has worked with patients 8-101 years old with the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, primary psychotic disorders, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and more. In his time as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse, he has focused on improving the patient experience through partnership and client driven treatment planning.
(585) 575-0611 View (585) 575-0611
Photo of A. Cyrus Marcy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A. Cyrus Marcy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Waitlist for new clients
If you are reading this, it is a safe bet you understand the challenges of living with an untreated or inadequately treated mental health condition. Day-to-day tasks that others navigate with ease become difficult. The once vivid dreams you had of the future become shaded with doubts. Perhaps you tried therapy and it was not enough. Maybe you tried medications and they had more side effects than they were worth. The only thing more frustrating than the symptoms of your illness is the growing sense that you will never get better.
If you are reading this, it is a safe bet you understand the challenges of living with an untreated or inadequately treated mental health condition. Day-to-day tasks that others navigate with ease become difficult. The once vivid dreams you had of the future become shaded with doubts. Perhaps you tried therapy and it was not enough. Maybe you tried medications and they had more side effects than they were worth. The only thing more frustrating than the symptoms of your illness is the growing sense that you will never get better.
(585) 252-5947 View (585) 252-5947
Photo of Stephanie M Carletta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie M Carletta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534
Welcome! I’m Stephanie Carletta, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in providing personalized care. I’m committed to creating a space where your unique experiences are truly valued. With a blend of medication management, integrative therapies, and lifestyle interventions, I tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs. My advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Obesity Medicine allows me to use functional and western medicine to support your optimal health and well-being.
Welcome! I’m Stephanie Carletta, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in providing personalized care. I’m committed to creating a space where your unique experiences are truly valued. With a blend of medication management, integrative therapies, and lifestyle interventions, I tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs. My advanced training in Integrative Psychiatry and Obesity Medicine allows me to use functional and western medicine to support your optimal health and well-being.
(585) 204-2066 View (585) 204-2066
Photo of Lauren N O'Meal, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren N O'Meal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534
I am now accepting adult clients in my new practice for medication management. I have experience with various psychiatric disorders and can help you develop a medication regime that works for you.
I am now accepting adult clients in my new practice for medication management. I have experience with various psychiatric disorders and can help you develop a medication regime that works for you.
(585) 440-7577 View (585) 440-7577
Photo of Marti K Klaver @ Mindset Integrative Services, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marti K Klaver @ Mindset Integrative Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
At Mindset Integrative, my mission is to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. My goal has always been for patients to have the least amount of medication that is effective for them. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and I strive to make that a reality for my clients. Now accepting the following insurances: Oscar Health, Meritain, United Healthcare, Oxford Live, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield New York (formerly Empire), Cigna, Aetna and Horizon BCBS of New Jersey, MVP, Excellus BCBS.
At Mindset Integrative, my mission is to provide compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. My goal has always been for patients to have the least amount of medication that is effective for them. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, and I strive to make that a reality for my clients. Now accepting the following insurances: Oscar Health, Meritain, United Healthcare, Oxford Live, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield New York (formerly Empire), Cigna, Aetna and Horizon BCBS of New Jersey, MVP, Excellus BCBS.
(585) 634-3901 View (585) 634-3901
Photo of Stacey M Perrotta, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stacey M Perrotta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
One thing we all know for sure, life throws us curveballs. And it's time to normalize that life isn't always perfect. We visit professionals all the time that improve our mood, self-esteem, and physical function. Massage and physical therapists, hair stylists, cosmetic injectors, chiropractors, personal trainers - they all share one thing in common; the ability to improve how we feel. Our minds and emotional health deserve the same level of care we give our bodies, so let's not wait any longer to get you there. I'm here for you when life is life'ing, including both the hardships and beautiful moments alike.
One thing we all know for sure, life throws us curveballs. And it's time to normalize that life isn't always perfect. We visit professionals all the time that improve our mood, self-esteem, and physical function. Massage and physical therapists, hair stylists, cosmetic injectors, chiropractors, personal trainers - they all share one thing in common; the ability to improve how we feel. Our minds and emotional health deserve the same level of care we give our bodies, so let's not wait any longer to get you there. I'm here for you when life is life'ing, including both the hardships and beautiful moments alike.
(585) 523-2029 View (585) 523-2029
Photo of Kaylin Cottone, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kaylin Cottone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Pittsford, NY 14534
Welcome! I am taking New Medication & Functional Medicine Clients Of All Ages For A Limited Time. Are you ready to reclaim your health and embark on a transformative journey towards a more fulfilling life? As a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) focused in functional Psychiatry, I utilize my integrative experience in my work with you and provide an unwavering commitment to your family's mental & physical health, providing a personalized & attentive experience to each patient I see. I utilize cutting edge diagnostic, lab, and assessment tools to maximize positive outcomes for my patients.
Welcome! I am taking New Medication & Functional Medicine Clients Of All Ages For A Limited Time. Are you ready to reclaim your health and embark on a transformative journey towards a more fulfilling life? As a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) focused in functional Psychiatry, I utilize my integrative experience in my work with you and provide an unwavering commitment to your family's mental & physical health, providing a personalized & attentive experience to each patient I see. I utilize cutting edge diagnostic, lab, and assessment tools to maximize positive outcomes for my patients.
(585) 524-0008 View (585) 524-0008
Photo of Dominique Sanders, PhD, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling on edge with anxiety, stress, and worried sick no matter what you do? Anxiety leaves us feeling panicked, exhausted and disconnected. You’re someone who deeply wants to feel peace, relaxed, and safe but still find yourself feeling out of control and heart racing. You want to feel calm and have no idea how to get there. You are ready to feel like yourself again, grounded with no fear or panic. You are ready to feel at ease in public and embrace connection at work and in your relationships. Most of all, you are ready to be free from the burden of anxiety, causing depression- I want to help you get there.
(725) 234-3005 View (725) 234-3005
Photo of Keighley Loveland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keighley Loveland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
I am accepting adult clients for medication management of anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. I do NOT evaluate or treat ADHD. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field including inpatient settings, residential care, outpatient clinics, and consultation work. My experience has crossed the lifespan, from 5 to 105. All backgrounds and identities are welcomed and embraced in my practice. I strongly believe in the power of listening as part of the healing process and as a means of partnering with clients to ensure treatment goals are understood.
I am accepting adult clients for medication management of anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. I do NOT evaluate or treat ADHD. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field including inpatient settings, residential care, outpatient clinics, and consultation work. My experience has crossed the lifespan, from 5 to 105. All backgrounds and identities are welcomed and embraced in my practice. I strongly believe in the power of listening as part of the healing process and as a means of partnering with clients to ensure treatment goals are understood.
(585) 440-5450 View (585) 440-5450
Photo of Kathleen Noe, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Noe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Have you been struggling with depression, anxiety or mood swings, jumping from provider to provider with little improvement in your mental health? With over 20+ years of experience in psychiatry, I can help you find the relief you are searching for. As a newly opened practice, I can frequently schedule appointments within a week.
Have you been struggling with depression, anxiety or mood swings, jumping from provider to provider with little improvement in your mental health? With over 20+ years of experience in psychiatry, I can help you find the relief you are searching for. As a newly opened practice, I can frequently schedule appointments within a week.
(585) 326-8558 View (585) 326-8558
Photo of Davonna Wilson - Balance Psychiatric Services, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Not Verified Not Verified
Online Only
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
(646) 480-1941 View (646) 480-1941
Photo of Dr. Brooke A. Finley, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, APHN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Brooke A. Finley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, APHN-BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Whatever challenges you face, it is my experience that you can work through them when you are motivated to explore what you don't know about yourself and have a good fit with a skilled psychotherapist who understands you. Respectively, I practice psychoanalytic psychotherapy, an approach that most therapists choose for themselves because it is so transformative. It is particularly helpful for difficult, complex and/or long-term issues, providing continued growth and psychic relief. By helping you understand yourself deeply, I will help you foster new ways of listening to your soul so you can create a satisfactory life worth living.
Whatever challenges you face, it is my experience that you can work through them when you are motivated to explore what you don't know about yourself and have a good fit with a skilled psychotherapist who understands you. Respectively, I practice psychoanalytic psychotherapy, an approach that most therapists choose for themselves because it is so transformative. It is particularly helpful for difficult, complex and/or long-term issues, providing continued growth and psychic relief. By helping you understand yourself deeply, I will help you foster new ways of listening to your soul so you can create a satisfactory life worth living.
(585) 310-8899 View (585) 310-8899
Photo of Xingjia Cui - Canandaigua Holistic Psychiatry, MD, MPH, MS, Psychiatrist
Canandaigua Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with 30 years of clinical experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions. My work spans diverse settings and cultures, allowing me to understand and address the unique needs of each patient. I earned my medical degree from Southeastern University Medical School in Nanjing, China. I completed my residency at University of Rochester, and pursued a fellowship at Harvard Medical School. This extensive training, coupled with decades of hands-on experience, equips me to help you navigate and overcome mental health challenges effectively.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with 30 years of clinical experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions. My work spans diverse settings and cultures, allowing me to understand and address the unique needs of each patient. I earned my medical degree from Southeastern University Medical School in Nanjing, China. I completed my residency at University of Rochester, and pursued a fellowship at Harvard Medical School. This extensive training, coupled with decades of hands-on experience, equips me to help you navigate and overcome mental health challenges effectively.
(585) 902-4304 View (585) 902-4304
Photo of Kate Tredwell, DNP, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kate Tredwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you or a loved one struggling? As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I’m here to help. My mission is to transform the experience of receiving mental health care and to support you in reaching your goals. My approach to care is both holistic and collaborative, with you at the center of the treatment team. Using evidence based treatment, I provide an evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment or referral focused around meeting your individual needs.
Are you or a loved one struggling? As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I’m here to help. My mission is to transform the experience of receiving mental health care and to support you in reaching your goals. My approach to care is both holistic and collaborative, with you at the center of the treatment team. Using evidence based treatment, I provide an evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment or referral focused around meeting your individual needs.
(585) 257-2932 View (585) 257-2932

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gregory L Gass, MD, Psychiatrist
Gregory L Gass
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
MY NEW YORK PRACTICE IS TELEPSYCHIATRY ONLY. You must meet criteria for on-line sessions, but may live anywhere in the state of New York.I provide psychiatric & psychopharmacological assessment & treatment for adolescents & young adults.I appreciate a collaborative approach with individuals, their parents, & their therapist, focusing on how each might currently be suffering, directing each to the treatment that best suits their needs. Each individual will be an active participant in treatment planning with success & understanding as goals.
MY NEW YORK PRACTICE IS TELEPSYCHIATRY ONLY. You must meet criteria for on-line sessions, but may live anywhere in the state of New York.I provide psychiatric & psychopharmacological assessment & treatment for adolescents & young adults.I appreciate a collaborative approach with individuals, their parents, & their therapist, focusing on how each might currently be suffering, directing each to the treatment that best suits their needs. Each individual will be an active participant in treatment planning with success & understanding as goals.
(646) 490-1536 View (646) 490-1536
Photo of Carmelle Cime, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carmelle Cime
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from NOVA Southeastern University and a second master’s in psychiatry from Wilkes University.
I am a dual board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in healthcare. I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from NOVA Southeastern University and a second master’s in psychiatry from Wilkes University.
(332) 244-4116 View (332) 244-4116
Photo of Joelle Frizzera, MSN, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joelle Frizzera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based care to individuals navigating mental health challenges. With a deep commitment to promoting well-being, I specialize in medication management, recognizing the profound impact that the right treatment plan can have on a person's life.
My mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based care to individuals navigating mental health challenges. With a deep commitment to promoting well-being, I specialize in medication management, recognizing the profound impact that the right treatment plan can have on a person's life.
(240) 451-8574 View (240) 451-8574

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 14534

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 14534 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
65% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 14534 see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in 14534?

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.