Psychiatrists in Albany County, NY

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Photo of Yandama Bangura - Quality Telehealth NP in Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Quality Telehealth NP in Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Hello! My name is Yandama Bangura and I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in outpatient mental health. I received my graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing in 2016. I am a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for improving mental health and well-being. With a firm belief in the power of both modern medicine and integrative approaches, I am committed to providing comprehensive and holistic care to my clients. I believe in providing non-judgmental, compassionate, and empathetic care.
Hello! My name is Yandama Bangura and I'm a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in outpatient mental health. I received my graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing in 2016. I am a dedicated and compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for improving mental health and well-being. With a firm belief in the power of both modern medicine and integrative approaches, I am committed to providing comprehensive and holistic care to my clients. I believe in providing non-judgmental, compassionate, and empathetic care.
(838) 384-3991 View (838) 384-3991
Photo of Dr. Francess George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPMHNP, -BC
Dr. Francess George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FPMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Do you or someone you know struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Mood Disorders, Sleep Disorders, Anger Issues, 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 more 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), ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Mood Disorders, Sleep Disorders, Anger Issues, 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 more difficult to function at your job, business, career, or school?
(518) 886-3639 View (518) 886-3639
Photo of Viktoriya Natanel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Viktoriya Natanel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of nursing experience. I am familiar with depression, anxiety, insomnia as well as the panic disorder, bipolar 2 and adhd disorders. I like to educate my clients about mental health and medications, proper drug use and interactions, adverse drug reactions, and the course and prognosis of mental illness.
I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of nursing experience. I am familiar with depression, anxiety, insomnia as well as the panic disorder, bipolar 2 and adhd disorders. I like to educate my clients about mental health and medications, proper drug use and interactions, adverse drug reactions, and the course and prognosis of mental illness.
(518) 757-9683 View (518) 757-9683
Photo of Margaret P Lucas - MPL Wellness, NP in Psychiatry, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NPP
MPL Wellness, NP in Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NPP
Latham, NY 12110
Not accepting new clients
At MPL Wellness, We understand mental health is just as important as physical health, we're here to provide the support you need and guide you through your mental wellbeing journey. We provide psychiatry care for adolescents to adults with various psychiatry diagnosis. In partnership with you, we'll help you manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar and other mental health concerns so you can have some relief, enjoy your friendships and family relationships, etc.
At MPL Wellness, We understand mental health is just as important as physical health, we're here to provide the support you need and guide you through your mental wellbeing journey. We provide psychiatry care for adolescents to adults with various psychiatry diagnosis. In partnership with you, we'll help you manage anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar and other mental health concerns so you can have some relief, enjoy your friendships and family relationships, etc.
(518) 749-4910 View (518) 749-4910
Photo of Allura Starr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Allura Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Albany, NY 12205
Currently welcoming new clients! Whether you’re in crisis or simply feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, you’ve taken a meaningful step by seeking support. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I work with clients ages 5–85 navigating a wide range of mental health challenges — including ADHD, anxiety, depression, ASD/autism, bipolar disorder, BPD and more — and specialize in neurodiversity—affirming care for children, teens, and adults. I provide thorough diagnostic assessment and personalized psychiatric medication management to reduce symptoms, restore balance, and support long-term mental wellness.
Currently welcoming new clients! Whether you’re in crisis or simply feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, you’ve taken a meaningful step by seeking support. As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I work with clients ages 5–85 navigating a wide range of mental health challenges — including ADHD, anxiety, depression, ASD/autism, bipolar disorder, BPD and more — and specialize in neurodiversity—affirming care for children, teens, and adults. I provide thorough diagnostic assessment and personalized psychiatric medication management to reduce symptoms, restore balance, and support long-term mental wellness.
(518) 667-8101 View (518) 667-8101
Photo of Christopher J. Weber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Christopher J. Weber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide mental health care via telehealth to adult clients located in New York State with medication management needs.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide mental health care via telehealth to adult clients located in New York State with medication management needs.
(518) 240-3924 View (518) 240-3924
Photo of Jacquelyn Ransbury, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacquelyn Ransbury
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Green Island, NY 12183
In-person appointments available in our Green Island and Schenectady offices. Jacquelyn is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Jacquelyn believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
In-person appointments available in our Green Island and Schenectady offices. Jacquelyn is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Jacquelyn believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 788-7983 View (518) 788-7983
Alexander E Nicholson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12205
***Tele-psychiatry Offered***Children and Adults*** Medications&Therapy (therapy limited to adults-and based on availability) I take the perspective that we are all complex and should appreciate and understand as best we can the complexity rather than the view that mere molecules alone are affecting our emotional states. I aim to provide what I would expect in my own care or my child's care: an active, present, and compassionate clinician who tries to understand the person or child seeking help and assisting in choosing the best paths for my health, both physical and emotional.
***Tele-psychiatry Offered***Children and Adults*** Medications&Therapy (therapy limited to adults-and based on availability) I take the perspective that we are all complex and should appreciate and understand as best we can the complexity rather than the view that mere molecules alone are affecting our emotional states. I aim to provide what I would expect in my own care or my child's care: an active, present, and compassionate clinician who tries to understand the person or child seeking help and assisting in choosing the best paths for my health, both physical and emotional.
(518) 882-4198 View (518) 882-4198
Photo of Sarah Covert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Sarah Covert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Albany, NY 12205
Not accepting new clients
During this unprecedented time, mental health treatment is more important then ever. I am here to be your partner in health and well-being. I am a masters prepared, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am able to prescribe medications & provide treatment for individuals. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD & mood disorders. I have additional training in the pre/postnatal population. I develop holistic treatment recommendations which are based on the most up to date evidence, as well as individual needs.
During this unprecedented time, mental health treatment is more important then ever. I am here to be your partner in health and well-being. I am a masters prepared, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am able to prescribe medications & provide treatment for individuals. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD & mood disorders. I have additional training in the pre/postnatal population. I develop holistic treatment recommendations which are based on the most up to date evidence, as well as individual needs.
(518) 348-4387 View (518) 348-4387
Photo of Riyad Rouf, Psychiatrist, MD
Riyad Rouf
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12205
Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, irritability are all too common. Unfortunately there are often many barriers to reaching out for help. My goal is to minimize those barriers and make it easy and convenient to find and schedule an appointment through my website (www.naseehapsych.com). I hope to offer a safe, convenient space for clients to find relief and function at their best.
Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, irritability are all too common. Unfortunately there are often many barriers to reaching out for help. My goal is to minimize those barriers and make it easy and convenient to find and schedule an appointment through my website (www.naseehapsych.com). I hope to offer a safe, convenient space for clients to find relief and function at their best.
(518) 656-1584 View (518) 656-1584
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Telepsychiatry Upstate New York, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Telepsychiatry Upstate New York
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
(518) 519-8503 View (518) 519-8503
Photo of Denise McClellan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise McClellan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
I am a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner and I also hold a master's degree in counseling psychology.
I am a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner and I also hold a master's degree in counseling psychology.
(332) 237-4326 View (332) 237-4326
Photo of Vanesa Samos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vanesa Samos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Green Island, NY 12183
In-person appointments available in our Green Island and Schenectady offices. Vanesa is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Vanesa believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
In-person appointments available in our Green Island and Schenectady offices. Vanesa is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Vanesa believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 788-7983 View (518) 788-7983
Photo of Heather Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Heather Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
9 Endorsed
Online Only
In-person appointments available in our Green Island and Schenectady offices. Adult Patients Only. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric. com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
In-person appointments available in our Green Island and Schenectady offices. Adult Patients Only. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric. com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
(518) 788-7983 View (518) 788-7983
Photo of Katherine Carlton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katherine Carlton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Albany, NY 12203
Greetings & welcome. As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer in person & telehealth services to adolescents & adults. I specialize in working with adolescents. Having worked with this population for decades, I enjoy guiding them through challenges & supporting them. I hold a certification in Wellness Counseling from Cornell University & believe that diet, activity and spending time doing what nourishes you, all contribute to healing. Via telehealth & in person appointments we can explore your goals & treatment options.
Greetings & welcome. As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer in person & telehealth services to adolescents & adults. I specialize in working with adolescents. Having worked with this population for decades, I enjoy guiding them through challenges & supporting them. I hold a certification in Wellness Counseling from Cornell University & believe that diet, activity and spending time doing what nourishes you, all contribute to healing. Via telehealth & in person appointments we can explore your goals & treatment options.
(518) 721-3154 View (518) 721-3154
Joan M Killeen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, B, C
Guilderland, NY 12084
Depression and anxiety can significantly impact a person's quality of life. There are ways to combat these conditions with medication and therapy. A willingness to feel better and want to change is all that is needed to get started on the road to recovery. I look forward to treating the adult population (age 18+), utilizing medication management, brief person-centered psychotherapy and education to help manage distress, empower and motivate patients to achieve their life goals.
Depression and anxiety can significantly impact a person's quality of life. There are ways to combat these conditions with medication and therapy. A willingness to feel better and want to change is all that is needed to get started on the road to recovery. I look forward to treating the adult population (age 18+), utilizing medication management, brief person-centered psychotherapy and education to help manage distress, empower and motivate patients to achieve their life goals.
(518) 417-1847 View (518) 417-1847
Photo of Uros Koprivica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Albany, NY 12203
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.
(518) 660-8194 View (518) 660-8194
Photo of Edele Louigarde - Uplifting Health NP in Psychiatry, PLLC., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Uplifting Health NP in Psychiatry, PLLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12205
Your mental health matters. Empowering mental wellness and navigating life's challenges. As a compassionate and dedicated practitioner, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those facing mental health struggles. Through my professional expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals on their journey towards wellness. Together we can work towards a brighter future where mental well-being is prioritized and celebrated.
Your mental health matters. Empowering mental wellness and navigating life's challenges. As a compassionate and dedicated practitioner, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those facing mental health struggles. Through my professional expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals on their journey towards wellness. Together we can work towards a brighter future where mental well-being is prioritized and celebrated.
(631) 557-6927 View (631) 557-6927
Photo of Amanda Allie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Amanda Allie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Albany, NY 12203
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, that diagnoses and treats mental health conditions in adults, children and adolescence, beginning at six years of age. After earning a master’s degree from Sage College in Troy, NY, she continued her passion by providing trauma informed care to high-risk youth and families throughout Albany and Schenectady County. She also has prior experience seeing patients of all ages, through telehealth and private practice.
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, that diagnoses and treats mental health conditions in adults, children and adolescence, beginning at six years of age. After earning a master’s degree from Sage College in Troy, NY, she continued her passion by providing trauma informed care to high-risk youth and families throughout Albany and Schenectady County. She also has prior experience seeing patients of all ages, through telehealth and private practice.
(518) 849-8308 x35 View (518) 849-8308 x35
Photo of Dr. Magdalene Coleman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Dr. Magdalene Coleman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Coleman is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who accepts clients from Arizona, New York, Oregon, Nevada, and Washington. My primary strengths include working with individuals who experience ADHD, ADD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, Bipolar, and medication management. Life has many twists and turns, and mental health issues can sometimes make the journey feel overwhelming. As your nurse practitioner, I am here to assist you through these challenges and guide you toward a better, more emotionally stable future. I aim to help you manage your symptoms and enhance your emotional well-being.
Dr. Coleman is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who accepts clients from Arizona, New York, Oregon, Nevada, and Washington. My primary strengths include working with individuals who experience ADHD, ADD, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia, Bipolar, and medication management. Life has many twists and turns, and mental health issues can sometimes make the journey feel overwhelming. As your nurse practitioner, I am here to assist you through these challenges and guide you toward a better, more emotionally stable future. I aim to help you manage your symptoms and enhance your emotional well-being.
(518) 684-5615 View (518) 684-5615

See more therapy options for Albany County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Albany County, NY

100+

Average cost per session

$179

Psychiatrists in Albany County, NY who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
93% Depression
79% Bipolar Disorder
77% ADHD
75% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Albany County, NY see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Albany County?

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.