Psychiatrists in Armonk, NY

Photo of Nabil Kotbi, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Nabil Kotbi
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to The Brain & Mind Healing Center, a premier private mental health practice providing psychiatric and mental health care. Our founder and Medical Director, Dr. Nabil Kotbi, is a distinguished multiple award-winning psychiatrist, recognized as one of the "Leading Physicians of The World" and "America's Top Psychiatrists." an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell, Dr. Kotbi brings over two decades of clinical expertise, combining interventional psychiatry, addiction medicine, prevention, psychosomatic medicine. This unique approach distinguishes our clinic as a leader in innovative mental health care.
Welcome to The Brain & Mind Healing Center, a premier private mental health practice providing psychiatric and mental health care. Our founder and Medical Director, Dr. Nabil Kotbi, is a distinguished multiple award-winning psychiatrist, recognized as one of the "Leading Physicians of The World" and "America's Top Psychiatrists." an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell, Dr. Kotbi brings over two decades of clinical expertise, combining interventional psychiatry, addiction medicine, prevention, psychosomatic medicine. This unique approach distinguishes our clinic as a leader in innovative mental health care.
(914) 647-8216 View (914) 647-8216
Photo of Andrea Cronin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Andrea Cronin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
How can we help you ? I am a dual-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I work closely with the three Licensed Clinical Social workers, Katie Parent, Stefanie Westrick and Michele Pasquale in our office. Our Katonah office is a small private practice. This allows us to provide warm and confidential individual care to include medication management and a variety of therapy modalities for mental health issues. Our office is conveniently located on the main strip in town. We do not accept commercial insurance, we can provide an insurance claim form for you to submit at the end of each visit.
How can we help you ? I am a dual-certified and licensed Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner. I work closely with the three Licensed Clinical Social workers, Katie Parent, Stefanie Westrick and Michele Pasquale in our office. Our Katonah office is a small private practice. This allows us to provide warm and confidential individual care to include medication management and a variety of therapy modalities for mental health issues. Our office is conveniently located on the main strip in town. We do not accept commercial insurance, we can provide an insurance claim form for you to submit at the end of each visit.
(914) 303-8885 View (914) 303-8885
Photo of Erika Marshall, Psychiatrist, MD
Erika Marshall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board certified psychiatrist practicing in Chappaqua, NY in Northern Westchester as well as online. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (medication management) for adults and older adolescents. I treat a wide variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, women's mental health and working with parents of children with special needs.
I am a board certified psychiatrist practicing in Chappaqua, NY in Northern Westchester as well as online. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (medication management) for adults and older adolescents. I treat a wide variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, women's mental health and working with parents of children with special needs.
(914) 864-0966 View (914) 864-0966
Photo of Adam Kaufman, Psychiatrist, MD
Adam Kaufman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome! I am a board certified psychiatrist trained at Weill Cornell Medical College and NYU. I bring a compassionate and practical approach to helping you get where you want to go.
Welcome! I am a board certified psychiatrist trained at Weill Cornell Medical College and NYU. I bring a compassionate and practical approach to helping you get where you want to go.
(914) 425-5808 View (914) 425-5808

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Supaporn Pathumanon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Supaporn Pathumanon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Larchmont, NY 10538
As a PMHNP-BC, I offer personalized, compassionate care for anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I listen closely and tailor each plan to fit your unique needs and goals. What sets me apart is my diverse clinical experience and holistic, intuitive approach. I combine evidence-based care with mindfulness and motivational interviewing to support lasting healing. My ideal client feels overwhelmed or stuck and wants clarity, peace, and real support. I help them feel seen, empowered, and ready to move forward.
As a PMHNP-BC, I offer personalized, compassionate care for anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I listen closely and tailor each plan to fit your unique needs and goals. What sets me apart is my diverse clinical experience and holistic, intuitive approach. I combine evidence-based care with mindfulness and motivational interviewing to support lasting healing. My ideal client feels overwhelmed or stuck and wants clarity, peace, and real support. I help them feel seen, empowered, and ready to move forward.
(914) 415-7637 View (914) 415-7637
Photo of Michael Hawthorne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael Hawthorne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm Michael Hawthorne, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health care. My mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic techniques with medication management when appropriate. My practice is centered around building strong, trusting relationships with my clients, and I strive to empower them to take an active role in their own mental health journey.
I'm Michael Hawthorne, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health care. My mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic techniques with medication management when appropriate. My practice is centered around building strong, trusting relationships with my clients, and I strive to empower them to take an active role in their own mental health journey.
(646) 718-4744 View (646) 718-4744
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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 Elizabeth Lokenauth, Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Elizabeth Lokenauth
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy with teenagers and adults struggling anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc. I am currently accepting telehealth patients in the state of NY. We do accept out of network benefits.
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy with teenagers and adults struggling anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc. I am currently accepting telehealth patients in the state of NY. We do accept out of network benefits.
(407) 993-2347 View (407) 993-2347
Photo of Gundu Reddy, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, with a background in HIV, psychiatry, integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance. I have also pursued an additional two years of training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU psychoanalytic institute. I feel that most people neglect psychiatric symptoms and either suffer in silence , either because they do not realize that their symptoms are treatable or they believe that they have to be strong. Many people are on the wrong medication, on sub-therapeutic therapeutic doses. In my experience , with care and perseverance, most people can get better, and achieve a better quality of life.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, with a background in HIV, psychiatry, integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance. I have also pursued an additional two years of training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU psychoanalytic institute. I feel that most people neglect psychiatric symptoms and either suffer in silence , either because they do not realize that their symptoms are treatable or they believe that they have to be strong. Many people are on the wrong medication, on sub-therapeutic therapeutic doses. In my experience , with care and perseverance, most people can get better, and achieve a better quality of life.
(914) 826-8976 View (914) 826-8976
Photo of Dr. Jena Simon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Jena Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10605
Jena M. Simon, DNP, is a Double Board-Certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family health. After graduating from Columbia University in 2010 as a Family and Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Simon worked in New York City at a large tertiary medical center caring for adults with sickle cell disease. In this role, she became attuned to the needs of people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
Jena M. Simon, DNP, is a Double Board-Certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family health. After graduating from Columbia University in 2010 as a Family and Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Simon worked in New York City at a large tertiary medical center caring for adults with sickle cell disease. In this role, she became attuned to the needs of people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
(347) 967-5203 View (347) 967-5203
Photo of Wassim Stephane, Psychiatrist, MD
Wassim Stephane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health with compassion and understanding, grounded in the latest scientific research and a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach. I have extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions, using evidence-based strategies tailored to each person's unique needs.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health with compassion and understanding, grounded in the latest scientific research and a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach. I have extensive experience treating a wide range of mental health conditions, using evidence-based strategies tailored to each person's unique needs.
(914) 430-4067 View (914) 430-4067
Photo of Veda Tyson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, NPP, APRN
Veda Tyson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, NPP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10605
Veda Tyson is a licensed and board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Veda has extensive training and experience with a range of evidence-based CBT interventions. Veda has worked in a number of clinical settings including outpatient clinics, inpatient settings, school-based health care, medical homes, and in a private practice setting. In addition to psychiatric evaluations and medication management, Veda has expertise providing individual therapy and parent training including Parent Management Training (PMT).
Veda Tyson is a licensed and board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Veda has extensive training and experience with a range of evidence-based CBT interventions. Veda has worked in a number of clinical settings including outpatient clinics, inpatient settings, school-based health care, medical homes, and in a private practice setting. In addition to psychiatric evaluations and medication management, Veda has expertise providing individual therapy and parent training including Parent Management Training (PMT).
(929) 533-2038 View (929) 533-2038
Photo of Dr. Paige Wootten, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, LMHC
Dr. Paige Wootten
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I often work with young adults and working professionals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and stress associated with life transitions. I am currently accepting new clients for medication management only. If you have an existing therapist, I value collaborating with them, and can provide referrals as needed. Because services are completely virtual at this time, if you have had a recent psychiatric hospitalization or are on medication that requires lab monitoring, this would not be the best fit.
I often work with young adults and working professionals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and stress associated with life transitions. I am currently accepting new clients for medication management only. If you have an existing therapist, I value collaborating with them, and can provide referrals as needed. Because services are completely virtual at this time, if you have had a recent psychiatric hospitalization or are on medication that requires lab monitoring, this would not be the best fit.
View
Photo of Mohsin S Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Mohsin S Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
Are you seeking a caring and compassionate provider who is attentive to your various dimensions: emotional, biological, cultural, and spiritual? Mohsin Ahmed, MD, PhD is a Columbia, Cambridge, and Cornell University educated and trained psychiatrist and neuroscientist who uniquely tailors an integrative approach for each individual. He is an expert in supportive, psychodynamic, and medication therapies and draws on the latest medical, neuroscientific, and holistic advances. He specializes in treatments for ADHD, mood/anxiety, memory and concentration issues, and difficulties with work, relationship, and cultural identity stressors.
Are you seeking a caring and compassionate provider who is attentive to your various dimensions: emotional, biological, cultural, and spiritual? Mohsin Ahmed, MD, PhD is a Columbia, Cambridge, and Cornell University educated and trained psychiatrist and neuroscientist who uniquely tailors an integrative approach for each individual. He is an expert in supportive, psychodynamic, and medication therapies and draws on the latest medical, neuroscientific, and holistic advances. He specializes in treatments for ADHD, mood/anxiety, memory and concentration issues, and difficulties with work, relationship, and cultural identity stressors.
(646) 679-2836 View (646) 679-2836
Photo of Rachel Ward, Psychiatrist, MD
Rachel Ward
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
**Email inquiries for quick response!** I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a commitment to maintaining a warm, open and non-judgmental space for all individuals I work with. I have experience diagnosing & treating a wide range of mental health issues, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, perinatal and postpartum depression/anxiety/psychosis, and adult ADD/ADHD.
**Email inquiries for quick response!** I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a commitment to maintaining a warm, open and non-judgmental space for all individuals I work with. I have experience diagnosing & treating a wide range of mental health issues, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, perinatal and postpartum depression/anxiety/psychosis, and adult ADD/ADHD.
(347) 801-7640 View (347) 801-7640
Photo of Alex Mustachi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alex Mustachi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
It is my goal and passion to see each client as a complex individual via the nursing holistic lenses. I do not see people as a diagnosis or disorder. People have multiple factors that affect and influence their lives. Family, environment, culture and genes are only some of the main factors that make us who we are. I intend to help you with the symptoms that negatively effects your life rather than “Treat” a diagnosis. Your improvement, your ability to get back to the life you envision for yourself, in other words; finding your center will be my reward in our provider/client relationship.
It is my goal and passion to see each client as a complex individual via the nursing holistic lenses. I do not see people as a diagnosis or disorder. People have multiple factors that affect and influence their lives. Family, environment, culture and genes are only some of the main factors that make us who we are. I intend to help you with the symptoms that negatively effects your life rather than “Treat” a diagnosis. Your improvement, your ability to get back to the life you envision for yourself, in other words; finding your center will be my reward in our provider/client relationship.
(475) 275-0799 View (475) 275-0799
Photo of William Nguyen, Psychiatrist, MD
William Nguyen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. My virtual private practice is a friendly, comfortable and safe space where one can come get help for a wide range of psychological struggles and emotional issues. I have a genuine desire to understand each individual and listen with an empathic, nonjudgmental and warm approach. I provide personalized, evidence-based treatments, incorporating psychotherapy and the judicious use of medications to alleviate symptoms to restore you back to emotional wellness.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. My virtual private practice is a friendly, comfortable and safe space where one can come get help for a wide range of psychological struggles and emotional issues. I have a genuine desire to understand each individual and listen with an empathic, nonjudgmental and warm approach. I provide personalized, evidence-based treatments, incorporating psychotherapy and the judicious use of medications to alleviate symptoms to restore you back to emotional wellness.
(646) 647-3297 View (646) 647-3297
Photo of Deneice Wickens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Deneice Wickens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Online Only
Join our judgment-free zone—Now Accepting New Clients! EMAIL us for a quick reply! Hello, I'm Deneice, a PsychNP offering virtual sessions in VA, NY, FL, TX, CO, AZ. I specialize in guiding teens and young-feeling adults through complex mental health issues, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar, psychosis, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and Autism. My holistic approach offers personalized care, blending evidence-based therapies with medication management. Together, we'll create a treatment plan that suits your unique preferences, supporting your well-being and building a foundation for long-term stability and resilience.
Join our judgment-free zone—Now Accepting New Clients! EMAIL us for a quick reply! Hello, I'm Deneice, a PsychNP offering virtual sessions in VA, NY, FL, TX, CO, AZ. I specialize in guiding teens and young-feeling adults through complex mental health issues, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar, psychosis, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, and Autism. My holistic approach offers personalized care, blending evidence-based therapies with medication management. Together, we'll create a treatment plan that suits your unique preferences, supporting your well-being and building a foundation for long-term stability and resilience.
(347) 679-6614 View (347) 679-6614
Photo of Aleksandr N Zverinskiy - Brave Health, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, FNP-C, LMHC
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, FNP-C, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
At Brave Health, your well-being is our priority. Our comprehensive mental health treatment and programs are easy-to-access, affordable and clinically effective. Whether you’re managing conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression, or dealing with challenges such as anxiety, grief, addiction, anger, or life transitions, we’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
(914) 306-9249 View (914) 306-9249
Photo of Isak Rabiyev, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Isak Rabiyev
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently affiliated with Readywell Psychiatric. My most common clientele includes someone someone seeking support for managing anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, who is motivated to actively engage in their care. They may struggle with focus, emotional regulation, or managing stress, and are looking for guidance in developing healthy coping strategies and improving their overall well-being. Their goal is to find balance in their lives, achieve greater emotional stability, and gain tools that empower them to thrive both personally and professionally.
Currently affiliated with Readywell Psychiatric. My most common clientele includes someone someone seeking support for managing anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, who is motivated to actively engage in their care. They may struggle with focus, emotional regulation, or managing stress, and are looking for guidance in developing healthy coping strategies and improving their overall well-being. Their goal is to find balance in their lives, achieve greater emotional stability, and gain tools that empower them to thrive both personally and professionally.
(929) 600-6105 View (929) 600-6105

See more therapy options for Armonk

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Armonk, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Armonk, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
75% Depression
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
50% Relationship Issues
50% Geriatric and Seniors

Average years in practice

19 Years

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male

How Psychiatrists in Armonk, NY see their clients

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Armonk?

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.