Psychiatrists in 14612

Photo of Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14612
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(585) 575-1121 View (585) 575-1121
Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14612
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.
(585) 888-5769 View (585) 888-5769
Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14612
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(585) 523-2841 View (585) 523-2841
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14612
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.
(585) 522-1839 View (585) 522-1839
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14612
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(585) 502-9266 View (585) 502-9266
Photo of Claudine Sapini, DNP , PMHNBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Claudine Sapini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNBC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14612
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
(585) 844-8341 View (585) 844-8341
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14612
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.
(585) 875-5098 View (585) 875-5098

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of La Carla Denise Holmes, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
La Carla Denise Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14615
La Carla is a Rochester native who has been in the nursing field for almost 25 years. During this time, she has gained abundant experience in various areas, including Hospice, Long-Term Care, and Mental Health. She has been instrumental in helping aspiring nursing professionals succeed. Intrigued by helping individuals who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders reach their fullest potential, she has embarked on a rewarding journey that offers fulfillment to lifelong happiness.
La Carla is a Rochester native who has been in the nursing field for almost 25 years. During this time, she has gained abundant experience in various areas, including Hospice, Long-Term Care, and Mental Health. She has been instrumental in helping aspiring nursing professionals succeed. Intrigued by helping individuals who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders reach their fullest potential, she has embarked on a rewarding journey that offers fulfillment to lifelong happiness.
(585) 636-3555 View (585) 636-3555
Photo of Annmarie F Flanagan - Rural 40 NP , DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rural 40 NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14617
I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I offer an inclusive experience focused on your needs. Utilizing the most up to date Evidence Based Practices to ensure your mental health is the best it can be. Utilizing a non-judgmental confidential setting to support your individualized needs. Working together to explore and identify your mental health needs. Therapy includes motivational interviewing along with a commonsense approach.
I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. I offer an inclusive experience focused on your needs. Utilizing the most up to date Evidence Based Practices to ensure your mental health is the best it can be. Utilizing a non-judgmental confidential setting to support your individualized needs. Working together to explore and identify your mental health needs. Therapy includes motivational interviewing along with a commonsense approach.
(585) 378-4447 View (585) 378-4447
Parker Gazda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626
I am a board-Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of New York, providing psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management. My goal is to provide all of my patients with care that is individualized and tailored to their needs and unique circumstances.
I am a board-Certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) in the state of New York, providing psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, and medication management. My goal is to provide all of my patients with care that is individualized and tailored to their needs and unique circumstances.
(585) 432-3555 View (585) 432-3555
Photo of John Connors - John Connors, M.D., P.C., MD, Psychiatrist
John Connors, M.D., P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14617
Not accepting new clients
Hello and Welcome! My name is John Connors, and I am a Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with additional training in Family Therapy. I hope to help you work towards restoring and/or creating wellness in the "challenged areas" of your life . My overall goal is to help you to identify concerns that interfere with your potential, and help define a plan of treatment that will help you to think clearly, communicate effectively, act with confidence, and feel better emotionally. As a Physician I approach assessment from a Neurobiologic, Psychological and Social perspective to best understand the context of your strengths and challenges.
Hello and Welcome! My name is John Connors, and I am a Board Certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with additional training in Family Therapy. I hope to help you work towards restoring and/or creating wellness in the "challenged areas" of your life . My overall goal is to help you to identify concerns that interfere with your potential, and help define a plan of treatment that will help you to think clearly, communicate effectively, act with confidence, and feel better emotionally. As a Physician I approach assessment from a Neurobiologic, Psychological and Social perspective to best understand the context of your strengths and challenges.
(855) 971-1546 View (855) 971-1546
Photo of Randi Nicole Bisbano, MS, RN, PMHNPBC, C-SAP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Randi Nicole Bisbano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, PMHNPBC, C-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14626
My clients often refer to me as open-minded and non-judgmental. After concluding a session, a former client of mine said, “That’s not what I expected, you treated me like a real person!” My ideal client is anyone that feels their life can be improved in some way, be able to set the necessary goals to reach them as a part of an active team, AND be willing to try! I’m looking forward to being part of your team!
My clients often refer to me as open-minded and non-judgmental. After concluding a session, a former client of mine said, “That’s not what I expected, you treated me like a real person!” My ideal client is anyone that feels their life can be improved in some way, be able to set the necessary goals to reach them as a part of an active team, AND be willing to try! I’m looking forward to being part of your team!
(585) 632-7286 View (585) 632-7286
Photo of Marion Fitzsimmons, PhD, NP , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marion Fitzsimmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, NP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14617  (Online Only)
When the worry, or the pain, or the fear of our current situation is standing in front of us like a brick wall, what if we could see beyond that present wall? Would seeing what lies beyond the present change how it's affecting us? When triggered by the right stressors, the genes we are born with can lead to anxiety, depression, mood swings, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations. And throughout life, we may experience abuse, neglect, loss, poverty, trauma and situations that make us feel “stuck.”
When the worry, or the pain, or the fear of our current situation is standing in front of us like a brick wall, what if we could see beyond that present wall? Would seeing what lies beyond the present change how it's affecting us? When triggered by the right stressors, the genes we are born with can lead to anxiety, depression, mood swings, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, hallucinations. And throughout life, we may experience abuse, neglect, loss, poverty, trauma and situations that make us feel “stuck.”
(716) 526-8865 View (716) 526-8865
Photo of Estelle “Stella” Webster, RN, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Estelle “Stella” Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14616  (Online Only)
Updating insurances-check below. Med marijuana and or medications-insurance, cash, CC- $300 initial/$150 follow up. Addiction, and /or mental health treatment. I provide medication management and therapy combined. If you struggle with addiction, depression, intrusive thoughts, or anxiety and social awkwardness, I can help. Do you find yourself afraid to do the things you did prior to COVID isolation? Perhaps you struggle with addiction combined with mental illness, not knowing which came first? Addiction is a response to trauma. Together, we can, uncover your true potential by creating a new narrative and discovering your true self.
Updating insurances-check below. Med marijuana and or medications-insurance, cash, CC- $300 initial/$150 follow up. Addiction, and /or mental health treatment. I provide medication management and therapy combined. If you struggle with addiction, depression, intrusive thoughts, or anxiety and social awkwardness, I can help. Do you find yourself afraid to do the things you did prior to COVID isolation? Perhaps you struggle with addiction combined with mental illness, not knowing which came first? Addiction is a response to trauma. Together, we can, uncover your true potential by creating a new narrative and discovering your true self.
(585) 513-2437 View (585) 513-2437
Photo of Tiffany Shea, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tiffany Shea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of NY, and I am so excited you are taking the next step or first step in your mental health journey. I have been in the medical field for over ten years and psychiatry specifically for over eight years. I have worked in emergency psychiatry services as well as outpatient mental health as a medication management provider, treating all ages and all psychiatric diagnoses. You can look to me to be your partner in this journey as I believe in the least amount of medication needed, along with being upfront on what may help you succeed.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of NY, and I am so excited you are taking the next step or first step in your mental health journey. I have been in the medical field for over ten years and psychiatry specifically for over eight years. I have worked in emergency psychiatry services as well as outpatient mental health as a medication management provider, treating all ages and all psychiatric diagnoses. You can look to me to be your partner in this journey as I believe in the least amount of medication needed, along with being upfront on what may help you succeed.
(585) 508-3219 View (585) 508-3219
Photo of Chelsea Woods, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chelsea Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14617  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Chelsea and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Maternal Mental Health, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Seasonal Affective Disorder (OCD). 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 Chelsea and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Maternal Mental Health, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Seasonal Affective Disorder (OCD). 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) 416-0469 View (929) 416-0469
Photo of Sharon Zimmerman, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sharon Zimmerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626
Welcome! I am happy you are taking steps to improve your mental well being. I know all too well how difficult life can feel when struggling with mental health symptoms. Successful treatment requires a comprehensive approach and appreciates that we are all unique and beautifully complex. It considers the biological, psychological, and social factors known to affect our mental health. With over 15 years experience, my expertise in this holistic approach is conducting psychiatric assessments, medication evaluations and implementing/ managing pharmacological interventions.
Welcome! I am happy you are taking steps to improve your mental well being. I know all too well how difficult life can feel when struggling with mental health symptoms. Successful treatment requires a comprehensive approach and appreciates that we are all unique and beautifully complex. It considers the biological, psychological, and social factors known to affect our mental health. With over 15 years experience, my expertise in this holistic approach is conducting psychiatric assessments, medication evaluations and implementing/ managing pharmacological interventions.
(585) 539-9793 View (585) 539-9793
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(315) 618-2566 View (315) 618-2566
Photo of A. Cyrus Marcy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A. Cyrus Marcy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Irondequoit, NY 14617
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 Kristina M Moss Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse
Kristina M Moss Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, MS, NPP
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626
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

See more therapy options for 14612

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 14612

< 10

Psychiatrists in 14612 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Bipolar Disorder
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Trauma and PTSD
57% Addiction
57% ADHD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 14612 see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 14612?

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.