Psychiatrists in Bedford, NY

Photo of Philip Benjamin Cawkwell, Psychiatrist, MD
Philip Benjamin Cawkwell
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child/Adolescent Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
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Photo of Drew Bianchi, Psychiatrist, MD
Drew Bianchi
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a therapist first and foremost. I am also a Mt Sinai and NYU-trained psychiatrist, and can prescribe medication when appropriate. I have over 10 years experience working with children (tweens and up) and adults (individuals and couples).
I am a therapist first and foremost. I am also a Mt Sinai and NYU-trained psychiatrist, and can prescribe medication when appropriate. I have over 10 years experience working with children (tweens and up) and adults (individuals and couples).
(646) 759-1265 View (646) 759-1265
Photo of Joan Jablow, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Joan Jablow
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 25 years’ experience treating individual adults and teens, adult couples, and families of all ages. In addition to psychotherapy, I am licensed to prescribe medications. My style is active and engaged, and I view trust, honesty and humor as key ingredients in forming an effective relationship with my clients. I encourage you to ask questions, and we both agree on treatment approaches and goals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 25 years’ experience treating individual adults and teens, adult couples, and families of all ages. In addition to psychotherapy, I am licensed to prescribe medications. My style is active and engaged, and I view trust, honesty and humor as key ingredients in forming an effective relationship with my clients. I encourage you to ask questions, and we both agree on treatment approaches and goals.
(914) 819-5694 View (914) 819-5694
Photo of Sarah Kent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Sarah Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Serves Area
I have successfully treated patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Hallucinations and Delusions as well as addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with patients as young as 2 years old and as old as 105 years old.
I have successfully treated patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Hallucinations and Delusions as well as addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with patients as young as 2 years old and as old as 105 years old.
(516) 701-2131 View (516) 701-2131
Photo of Dr. Sheila Devlin-Craane, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC
Dr. Sheila Devlin-Craane
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, NPP, MSN, APRN-BC
Serves Area
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc, NY & CT / Dr Devlin is a DNP, & is EMDR certified . Experience encompasses than 35 yrs as practitioner in medical, oncology and psychiatric treatment doctorally prepared in psychiatric MH. Specializations: post traumatic stress disorder and trauma related conditions. Modalities : psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, integrative methods, & sound healing. By appointment only: 203 405-9254
Dr Sheila Devlin-Craane - Counseling Associates Inc, NY & CT / Dr Devlin is a DNP, & is EMDR certified . Experience encompasses than 35 yrs as practitioner in medical, oncology and psychiatric treatment doctorally prepared in psychiatric MH. Specializations: post traumatic stress disorder and trauma related conditions. Modalities : psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, integrative methods, & sound healing. By appointment only: 203 405-9254
(203) 405-9254 View (203) 405-9254
Photo of Rhea Johnson, Psychiatrist, MD
Rhea Johnson
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Do you feel intense fear or sadness which has your life or psychotherapy at an impasse? I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My practice specializes in the medication management of adults (in particular women) with mood, anxiety and attentional disorders. I have special expertise in treating individuals who also have medical illnesses or who are pregnant/post-partum/breastfeeding as well as perimenopausal/menopausal and in need of medication support as a component of their care.
Do you feel intense fear or sadness which has your life or psychotherapy at an impasse? I offer a thoughtful, comprehensive assessment to discuss and weigh out the role that medications could play to support your process of change. My practice specializes in the medication management of adults (in particular women) with mood, anxiety and attentional disorders. I have special expertise in treating individuals who also have medical illnesses or who are pregnant/post-partum/breastfeeding as well as perimenopausal/menopausal and in need of medication support as a component of their care.
(914) 618-3403 View (914) 618-3403
Photo of Ashly Oommen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashly Oommen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Ashly Oommen, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at TTC Psychiatric. She provides tailored mental wellness services for sustained relief from depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder amongst other conditions. The practice also offers TMS and Spravato treatment. With a focus on integrative care, Ashly is committed to understanding your unique journey and creating an individualized plan of care that aligns with your needs and goals.
Ashly Oommen, PMHNP-BC is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at TTC Psychiatric. She provides tailored mental wellness services for sustained relief from depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder amongst other conditions. The practice also offers TMS and Spravato treatment. With a focus on integrative care, Ashly is committed to understanding your unique journey and creating an individualized plan of care that aligns with your needs and goals.
(914) 279-3860 View (914) 279-3860

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kelly Conklin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelly Conklin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that prioritizing mental health is essential for living a balanced and fulfilling life. I’m passionate about helping others navigate their mental health journeys with compassion, respect, and a holistic approach.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that prioritizing mental health is essential for living a balanced and fulfilling life. I’m passionate about helping others navigate their mental health journeys with compassion, respect, and a holistic approach.
(845) 299-2060 View (845) 299-2060
Photo of Alexis Fliehs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN (C
Alexis Fliehs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN (C
Serves Area
Wherever you are in your mental health journey, Alexis will meet you there. Her goal is to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment, setting the foundation for a relationship based on mutual trust and respect. A comprehensive and holistic assessment will guide the collaborative efforts between patient and provider to create personalized goals and a treatment plan. This may include psychoeducation, medication management, and therapy. Lifestyle modifications such as nutrition, sleep hygiene, exercise, and meditation are also incorporated. Alexis is passionate about helping those who are struggling with mental health issues.
Wherever you are in your mental health journey, Alexis will meet you there. Her goal is to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment, setting the foundation for a relationship based on mutual trust and respect. A comprehensive and holistic assessment will guide the collaborative efforts between patient and provider to create personalized goals and a treatment plan. This may include psychoeducation, medication management, and therapy. Lifestyle modifications such as nutrition, sleep hygiene, exercise, and meditation are also incorporated. Alexis is passionate about helping those who are struggling with mental health issues.
(914) 491-5165 View (914) 491-5165
Photo of Helene R. Jacobs - Helene Jacobs, MD | Holistic Symphony Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Helene Jacobs, MD | Holistic Symphony Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a whole-person approach to help adolescents and adults, with a special focus on professional women, struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, neurodivergence, and life transitions regain control, reach their goals, and become their most joyful selves. I also specialize in parent guidance, particularly for parents of neurodiverse children with ADHD, on the autism spectrum, or other learning/processing differences. Through culturally competent care, I also help those in the LGBTQIA+ and Jewish communities who are exploring issues such as sexuality, gender, and emerging identity cultivate confidence and a sense of belonging.
I use a whole-person approach to help adolescents and adults, with a special focus on professional women, struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, neurodivergence, and life transitions regain control, reach their goals, and become their most joyful selves. I also specialize in parent guidance, particularly for parents of neurodiverse children with ADHD, on the autism spectrum, or other learning/processing differences. Through culturally competent care, I also help those in the LGBTQIA+ and Jewish communities who are exploring issues such as sexuality, gender, and emerging identity cultivate confidence and a sense of belonging.
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Photo of Kate Graen, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Kate Graen
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Serves Area
As a psychiatric clinician, I have a passion for helping to enhance patients’ mental, emotional, and physical health through excellent listening and observation skills combined with kindness, affability, and humility. Prescribing the most effective treatment protocols, including medication, lifestyle adjustment, social and educational support, behavior modification, and psychotherapy.
As a psychiatric clinician, I have a passion for helping to enhance patients’ mental, emotional, and physical health through excellent listening and observation skills combined with kindness, affability, and humility. Prescribing the most effective treatment protocols, including medication, lifestyle adjustment, social and educational support, behavior modification, and psychotherapy.
(929) 395-1431 View (929) 395-1431
Photo of Hierarchy Bh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Hierarchy Bh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. I have a expertise in providing Psychiatric Assessments, Medication Management, Individual and Family Psychotherapy. I am specialized in Adults and Geriatric Psychiatry. Majority of my training and clinical experience has been at coney island hospital and Lincoln hospital.
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. I have a expertise in providing Psychiatric Assessments, Medication Management, Individual and Family Psychotherapy. I am specialized in Adults and Geriatric Psychiatry. Majority of my training and clinical experience has been at coney island hospital and Lincoln hospital.
(914) 368-6613 View (914) 368-6613
Photo of Nikesha Abdool, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, NP
Nikesha Abdool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, NP
Tarrytown, NY 10591
Ms. Abdool is a New York State licensed Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry with a degree from New York University's Rory Meyers College. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and utilizes an eclectic approach to patient care, providing treatment for a wide variety of mental health issues including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and addiction. She offers a holistic approach to treatment for the adult population she serves in our Tarrytown office.
Ms. Abdool is a New York State licensed Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry with a degree from New York University's Rory Meyers College. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and utilizes an eclectic approach to patient care, providing treatment for a wide variety of mental health issues including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and addiction. She offers a holistic approach to treatment for the adult population she serves in our Tarrytown office.
(914) 292-3361 View (914) 292-3361
Photo of Kristina Manich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kristina Manich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Peekskill, NY 10566
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management , I bring a wealth of experience in helping individuals of all ages navigate through a spectrum of mental health challenges.
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management , I bring a wealth of experience in helping individuals of all ages navigate through a spectrum of mental health challenges.
(914) 274-4074 View (914) 274-4074
Photo of Grace Coviello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Grace Coviello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at New Path Psychiatry, I specialize in medication management, ADHD, and anxiety-related conditions. Whether you're just beginning to explore medication options or continuing your mental health journey, I’m glad you’re here to receive informed, confidential, and collaborative care. My approach goes beyond labels and is centered on understanding the deeper context of your experience, to support true healing and growth. Let's work towards a mutual understanding of the unique issues and stressors that go past what is revealed by a diagnosis.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at New Path Psychiatry, I specialize in medication management, ADHD, and anxiety-related conditions. Whether you're just beginning to explore medication options or continuing your mental health journey, I’m glad you’re here to receive informed, confidential, and collaborative care. My approach goes beyond labels and is centered on understanding the deeper context of your experience, to support true healing and growth. Let's work towards a mutual understanding of the unique issues and stressors that go past what is revealed by a diagnosis.
(929) 470-2730 View (929) 470-2730
Photo of Aleksandr O Zverinskiy - Brave Health, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, FNP-C
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, FNP-C
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) 303-8974 View (914) 303-8974
Photo of Jeffrey P Kahn, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey P Kahn
Psychiatrist, MD
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Jeffrey P. Kahn, MD is a Columbia trained psychiatrist and Full Cornell Professor in Westchester (Scarsdale) and on the Upper West Side. He offers thoughtful psychotherapy, careful medication, and thorough evaluation. This empathic approach helps with relationship, work and career issues - and with anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Thorough evaluation includes attentive listening, detailed history, emotional understanding, clear diagnoses, and best options. Mostly an office psychiatrist, he has studied, written, spoken, and taught on many topics. More then ten years a Top Doctor (New York Magazine, Castle-Connolly Medical).
Jeffrey P. Kahn, MD is a Columbia trained psychiatrist and Full Cornell Professor in Westchester (Scarsdale) and on the Upper West Side. He offers thoughtful psychotherapy, careful medication, and thorough evaluation. This empathic approach helps with relationship, work and career issues - and with anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Thorough evaluation includes attentive listening, detailed history, emotional understanding, clear diagnoses, and best options. Mostly an office psychiatrist, he has studied, written, spoken, and taught on many topics. More then ten years a Top Doctor (New York Magazine, Castle-Connolly Medical).
(914) 610-7316 View (914) 610-7316
Photo of Dr. Tasia Henderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Tasia Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
White Plains, NY 10605
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences. For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qb Test.
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences. For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qb Test.
(848) 279-0533 View (848) 279-0533
Photo of Lisa Turtz, Psychiatrist, MD
Lisa Turtz
Psychiatrist, MD
Larchmont, NY 10538
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York State, with over 30 years of experience. I have had a private practice in Larchmont, NY since 2016. I was also, a private practitioner, working at two Montefiore Medical groups from April 2008-2022. Prior to that, I worked as a Psychiatrist for HIP for many years from 1990 to April 2008, first at a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic and then at two medical group sites. I enjoyed working as a Psychiatrist in a medical setting, collaborating with primary care physicians, where there is an interface between Psychiatry and Medicine.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York State, with over 30 years of experience. I have had a private practice in Larchmont, NY since 2016. I was also, a private practitioner, working at two Montefiore Medical groups from April 2008-2022. Prior to that, I worked as a Psychiatrist for HIP for many years from 1990 to April 2008, first at a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic and then at two medical group sites. I enjoyed working as a Psychiatrist in a medical setting, collaborating with primary care physicians, where there is an interface between Psychiatry and Medicine.
(914) 825-4472 View (914) 825-4472
Photo of Zhanna Berman - Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 6 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents and adults.
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 6 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents and adults.
(315) 860-9795 View (315) 860-9795

See more therapy options for Bedford

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Bedford, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Bedford, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% ADHD
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Sleep or Insomnia
86% Medication Management
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

24 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in Bedford, NY see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Bedford?

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.