Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of William Andrew Sterling, Psychiatrist, MD
William Andrew Sterling
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Dr. William Sterling is a psychiatrist in clinical and forensic practice. He completed medical school at SUNY Downstate College Of Medicine, residency at Zucker-Hillside Hospital/Hofstra-Northwell, and fellowship in forensic psychiatric at New York University. He is Board Certified in both Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry. He has been in private practice since 2021. Dr. Sterling works primarily as a forensic evaluator, and is available as an expert witness on a variety of topics. Those topics include:
Dr. William Sterling is a psychiatrist in clinical and forensic practice. He completed medical school at SUNY Downstate College Of Medicine, residency at Zucker-Hillside Hospital/Hofstra-Northwell, and fellowship in forensic psychiatric at New York University. He is Board Certified in both Psychiatry and Forensic Psychiatry. He has been in private practice since 2021. Dr. Sterling works primarily as a forensic evaluator, and is available as an expert witness on a variety of topics. Those topics include:
(929) 460-0434 View (929) 460-0434
Photo of Toba Omidiji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Toba Omidiji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Online Only
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
(718) 831-6668 View (718) 831-6668
Photo of Amaka Orji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amaka Orji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you a Millennial, Gen Z, or First Gen-American professional feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure how to break free from anxiety or depression? The pressure to succeed, balance a demanding career, and navigate cultural or family expectations can feel like too much. Maybe you’re battling burnout, high-functioning anxiety, or the stigma around mental health and taking medications in your community. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience, I help clients like you regain motivation, find purpose, and actually enjoy life again—with expert guidance, empathy, and a little humor. You're not alone.
Are you a Millennial, Gen Z, or First Gen-American professional feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure how to break free from anxiety or depression? The pressure to succeed, balance a demanding career, and navigate cultural or family expectations can feel like too much. Maybe you’re battling burnout, high-functioning anxiety, or the stigma around mental health and taking medications in your community. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10+ years of experience, I help clients like you regain motivation, find purpose, and actually enjoy life again—with expert guidance, empathy, and a little humor. You're not alone.
(929) 556-6465 View (929) 556-6465
Photo of Zoe Goldberg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Zoe Goldberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my Masters of Science and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Columbia University and completed my clinical training at Bellevue Hospital. I have worked with adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, insomnia, and various other mental health concerns.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my Masters of Science and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Columbia University and completed my clinical training at Bellevue Hospital. I have worked with adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, insomnia, and various other mental health concerns.
(929) 207-9379 View (929) 207-9379
Photo of Dr. Cynthia Ann Rutherford, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Cynthia Ann Rutherford
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Life is full of peaks and valleys. When we are in a valley, we can feel lost as we are unable to find a way out. There can be many reasons for the sense of dread, emotional pain, and suffering. In those times we may need someone to walk with us, listen to us, and most of all, care. Our suffering may come from many things like adverse childhood experiences, life, or genetics. We may need medications to help or good psychotherapy to help find our way back to a peak.
Life is full of peaks and valleys. When we are in a valley, we can feel lost as we are unable to find a way out. There can be many reasons for the sense of dread, emotional pain, and suffering. In those times we may need someone to walk with us, listen to us, and most of all, care. Our suffering may come from many things like adverse childhood experiences, life, or genetics. We may need medications to help or good psychotherapy to help find our way back to a peak.
(332) 284-1610 View (332) 284-1610
Photo of Shervin Parvizi Ravan, Psychiatrist, MD
Shervin Parvizi Ravan
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
(347) 514-9562 View (347) 514-9562
Photo of Charles Edward McDermott, Psychiatrist, M, D
Charles Edward McDermott
Psychiatrist, M, D
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I can help you thrive in your personal and professional life and overcome difficulties with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, career and relationship issues. I am a board certified, compassionate psychiatrist in private practice for 40 years and a former faculty member at SUNY Medical College. I’ve found, and research confirms, that treatment is more effective when psychotherapy is added even when medication is needed. My psychotherapy is informed by advances in neuroscience. Most sessions include both psychotherapy and evaluation of your medication. If you have insurance, I’ll help you with information for your claim.
I can help you thrive in your personal and professional life and overcome difficulties with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, career and relationship issues. I am a board certified, compassionate psychiatrist in private practice for 40 years and a former faculty member at SUNY Medical College. I’ve found, and research confirms, that treatment is more effective when psychotherapy is added even when medication is needed. My psychotherapy is informed by advances in neuroscience. Most sessions include both psychotherapy and evaluation of your medication. If you have insurance, I’ll help you with information for your claim.
(347) 991-8657 View (347) 991-8657
Photo of Olanike O Kekere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP
Olanike O Kekere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, NP
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
I am a Yale University-trained Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner with over 18 years of experience in Mental Health. I am lifespan board-certified to treat ages 5 to 70years old. I have subspecialty training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical research. I treat all psychiatric conditions including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD and abuse survivors, OCD, Eating Disorders, and ODD. I provide culturally sensitive integrative and holistic psychiatric services that are tailored to each individual patient's needs.
(929) 362-5934 View (929) 362-5934
Photo of Stella Okah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stella Okah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Stella Okah, I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified. I'm licensed to practice independently in a great State of New York. A full spectrum of psychiatric care and addiction management, assessing, diagnosing, and managing the prevention and treatment of psychiatric disorders and behavioral health problems. General health promotion and disease prevention. Follow up for symptoms and medication management. Communicate effectively with other disciplines for collaborative and integrated care
My name is Stella Okah, I'm a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner board certified. I'm licensed to practice independently in a great State of New York. A full spectrum of psychiatric care and addiction management, assessing, diagnosing, and managing the prevention and treatment of psychiatric disorders and behavioral health problems. General health promotion and disease prevention. Follow up for symptoms and medication management. Communicate effectively with other disciplines for collaborative and integrated care
(347) 767-4104 View (347) 767-4104
Photo of Jacob Leivent, Psychiatrist, MD
Jacob Leivent
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I treat high functioning adults who suffer from symptoms that prevent them from reaching their full potential. I specialize in targeting symptoms related to anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, ADHD, depression, and other mood disorders. I offer clients both flexibility and ease of scheduling regardless of work schedules with evening and weekend office hours from 2 office locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
I treat high functioning adults who suffer from symptoms that prevent them from reaching their full potential. I specialize in targeting symptoms related to anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, ADHD, depression, and other mood disorders. I offer clients both flexibility and ease of scheduling regardless of work schedules with evening and weekend office hours from 2 office locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
(516) 531-2450 View (516) 531-2450
Photo of Ruth Emily Geller, Psychiatrist, MD
Ruth Emily Geller
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11217
As a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I treat individuals of all ages, with both medication and psychotherapy, as appropriate. Whether you are seeking care for yourself or your child, it is important that you feel confidence and trust in me if I'm to be of help. I strongly believe (and research shows!) that the most important factor in successful outcomes is the therapeutic relationship. I encourage you to ask questions, trust your gut, and take time to determine if you feel comfortable. I appreciate that speaking with a psychiatrist may not be easy and takes courage.
As a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I treat individuals of all ages, with both medication and psychotherapy, as appropriate. Whether you are seeking care for yourself or your child, it is important that you feel confidence and trust in me if I'm to be of help. I strongly believe (and research shows!) that the most important factor in successful outcomes is the therapeutic relationship. I encourage you to ask questions, trust your gut, and take time to determine if you feel comfortable. I appreciate that speaking with a psychiatrist may not be easy and takes courage.
(347) 673-0386 View (347) 673-0386
Photo of Robin Gibson-Simms, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Robin Gibson-Simms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggling with feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, attention issues, or mood swings? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, clear diagnoses, and personalized medication management for adolescents and young adults. My approach; evidence-based practice with authentic care. If something feels off—or if you're ready to get clarity and move forward—let’s talk. We’ll start with a full psychiatric evaluation and develop a treatment plan. Evening/weekend sessions avail and flexible care designed to help you feel better and move forward—without judgment or pressure.
Struggling with feeling overwhelmed, anxiety, attention issues, or mood swings? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, clear diagnoses, and personalized medication management for adolescents and young adults. My approach; evidence-based practice with authentic care. If something feels off—or if you're ready to get clarity and move forward—let’s talk. We’ll start with a full psychiatric evaluation and develop a treatment plan. Evening/weekend sessions avail and flexible care designed to help you feel better and move forward—without judgment or pressure.
(718) 568-6414 View (718) 568-6414
Photo of Tanya Azarani, Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
Tanya Azarani
Psychiatrist, MD, PLLC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist with training in conventional and alternative medicine. I treat adults of all ages with many conditions including trauma, anxiety, depression, insomnia, relationship difficulties, sexual orientation and gender identity concerns. I have experience working with college and graduate students and professionals with occupational burnout.
Welcome! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist with training in conventional and alternative medicine. I treat adults of all ages with many conditions including trauma, anxiety, depression, insomnia, relationship difficulties, sexual orientation and gender identity concerns. I have experience working with college and graduate students and professionals with occupational burnout.
(347) 970-8003 View (347) 970-8003
Linda Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Linda Perry, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in trauma-informed care and postpartum support. She is also trained in Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy, treating children, adolescents, adult and geriatric Psychopharmacology. Linda is also a Licensed Certified Nurse Midwife in NJ and NY, since 2002. She has experience as a Sexual assault nurse examiner, involvement in Domestic and Intimate Partner violence and is a volunteer advocate with the Rachel Coalition.
Linda Perry, PMHNP is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in trauma-informed care and postpartum support. She is also trained in Psychopharmacology and Psychotherapy, treating children, adolescents, adult and geriatric Psychopharmacology. Linda is also a Licensed Certified Nurse Midwife in NJ and NY, since 2002. She has experience as a Sexual assault nurse examiner, involvement in Domestic and Intimate Partner violence and is a volunteer advocate with the Rachel Coalition.
(347) 752-5850 View (347) 752-5850
Photo of Kat Broadway, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MS, PMHNP
Kat Broadway
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MS, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am here to join you in deep exploration of your emotional journey. Together, we will identify and solidify your internal and external resources, deepen your emotional resilience, and create a path out of the darkness. We will start with a consultation and full assessment and then work together to create an individualized treatment plan. I specialize in working with mood disorders, trauma, queer fertility, and hormones.
I am here to join you in deep exploration of your emotional journey. Together, we will identify and solidify your internal and external resources, deepen your emotional resilience, and create a path out of the darkness. We will start with a consultation and full assessment and then work together to create an individualized treatment plan. I specialize in working with mood disorders, trauma, queer fertility, and hormones.
(929) 294-8844 View (929) 294-8844
Photo of Christina L Persaud, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Christina L Persaud
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
(646) 956-5955 View (646) 956-5955
Photo of Sharita Denene Womack, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNP-B
Sharita Denene Womack
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNP-B
Online Only
My practice focuses on providing comprehensive mental health care using a recovery-oriented, holistic, and person-centered approach. I specialize in managing patients with co-occurring medical and psychiatric diagnoses, understanding how physical and mental health intersect to impact overall wellbeing. With specialized experience in women's health and infectious diseases, I bring a distinctive perspective to mental health treatment that considers the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors affecting mental wellness.
My practice focuses on providing comprehensive mental health care using a recovery-oriented, holistic, and person-centered approach. I specialize in managing patients with co-occurring medical and psychiatric diagnoses, understanding how physical and mental health intersect to impact overall wellbeing. With specialized experience in women's health and infectious diseases, I bring a distinctive perspective to mental health treatment that considers the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors affecting mental wellness.
(929) 594-3846 View (929) 594-3846
Photo of Dan Coleman, Psychiatrist, MD
Dan Coleman
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
(929) 429-4138 View (929) 429-4138
Photo of Jean Rigaud Cetoute, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Jean Rigaud Cetoute
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric-Mental Health. I specialized in several aspects of mental health such as mood disorders, eating disorders, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, and anxiety disorders. I Provide comprehensive evaluations and medication management. I have a solid foundation to customize a treatment plan based on your specific needs. In a world where life is so unpredictable, my goal is to assure that I meet your needs to walk you through the dark tunnel. I look forward to helping you in times of uncertainty. Feel free to contact me.
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric-Mental Health. I specialized in several aspects of mental health such as mood disorders, eating disorders, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, and anxiety disorders. I Provide comprehensive evaluations and medication management. I have a solid foundation to customize a treatment plan based on your specific needs. In a world where life is so unpredictable, my goal is to assure that I meet your needs to walk you through the dark tunnel. I look forward to helping you in times of uncertainty. Feel free to contact me.
(929) 447-2430 View (929) 447-2430
Photo of Tashai Surgeon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tashai Surgeon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you seeking a compassionate and supportive environment to help you navigate life’s challenges, achieve your goals and improve your mental wellbeing ? I am dedicated to providing exactly that. I offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you receive the care and attention you deserve. As a certified Gestalt psychotherapist, I specialize in fostering self-awareness and self-understanding. This approach helps individuals overcome personal barriers and reach their full potential. With my extensive knowledge and training, I can guide you towards greater emotional and mental balance
Are you seeking a compassionate and supportive environment to help you navigate life’s challenges, achieve your goals and improve your mental wellbeing ? I am dedicated to providing exactly that. I offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you receive the care and attention you deserve. As a certified Gestalt psychotherapist, I specialize in fostering self-awareness and self-understanding. This approach helps individuals overcome personal barriers and reach their full potential. With my extensive knowledge and training, I can guide you towards greater emotional and mental balance
(347) 252-8116 View (347) 252-8116

See more therapy options for Brooklyn

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY

800+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
78% Medication Management
75% ADHD
75% Bipolar Disorder
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY see their clients

57% Online Only
43% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

68% Female
31% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Brooklyn?

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.