Psychiatrists in Cortland, NY

Photo of Jessie Zhe Lin, FPMHNP, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessie Zhe Lin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, NPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cortland, NY 13045
Accepting New Patients. I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP-BC) with nine years of experience. Licensed in New York State to diagnose, provide therapy, education, and prescribe medications for mental health conditions. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in outpatient mental health clinics across the Central New York (CNY) region. I earned my Master’s degree in Family Psychiatry Mental Health from SUNY Upstate School of Nursing, graduating with high honors, and I am nationally accredited in Psychiatry across the lifespan by the ANCC.
Accepting New Patients. I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP-BC) with nine years of experience. Licensed in New York State to diagnose, provide therapy, education, and prescribe medications for mental health conditions. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in outpatient mental health clinics across the Central New York (CNY) region. I earned my Master’s degree in Family Psychiatry Mental Health from SUNY Upstate School of Nursing, graduating with high honors, and I am nationally accredited in Psychiatry across the lifespan by the ANCC.
(315) 640-3835 View (315) 640-3835
Photo of Syed H Jaffery, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Syed H Jaffery
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
Cortland, NY 13045
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with extensive clinical experience in treating Children,Adolescents & Adults with mental health and substance use disorders.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with extensive clinical experience in treating Children,Adolescents & Adults with mental health and substance use disorders.
(917) 809-6587 View (917) 809-6587
Photo of Elijah B Stevens - Psychiatric NP Healthcare of CNY, MSN, ANP, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric NP Healthcare of CNY
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP, NPP
Verified Verified
Cortland, NY 13045
Currently Accepting New Patients - We are a Self Pay Office: Welcome to Psychiatric NP Healthcare of Central NY. We are an independently owned and operated “Nurse Practitioner” Medication Management specialty office for Psychiatric Disorders, Medical Marijuana for Chronic Pain Adjunct and Suboxone for Opiod Addiction Treatment & Chronic Pain Adjunctive Treatment (without opiate withdrawal symptoms). We decided to become a Self-Pay office so that Insurance companies/Medicare & Medicaid would not be able to decide what care you received but rather you receive the care you deserve to help save your life. - www.elijahstevensnp.com
Currently Accepting New Patients - We are a Self Pay Office: Welcome to Psychiatric NP Healthcare of Central NY. We are an independently owned and operated “Nurse Practitioner” Medication Management specialty office for Psychiatric Disorders, Medical Marijuana for Chronic Pain Adjunct and Suboxone for Opiod Addiction Treatment & Chronic Pain Adjunctive Treatment (without opiate withdrawal symptoms). We decided to become a Self-Pay office so that Insurance companies/Medicare & Medicaid would not be able to decide what care you received but rather you receive the care you deserve to help save your life. - www.elijahstevensnp.com
(315) 565-6862 View (315) 565-6862

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14609
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(585) 875-5098 View (585) 875-5098
Photo of Marjorie Baker Price, RN, CH, Psychiatric Nurse
Marjorie Baker Price
Psychiatric Nurse, RN, CH
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14607
Ideal clients come to me with a level of desperation after having tried unsuccessfully with some traditional psychological modalities. Clients typically need assistance with traumas and stress as well as self-care maintenance.
Ideal clients come to me with a level of desperation after having tried unsuccessfully with some traditional psychological modalities. Clients typically need assistance with traumas and stress as well as self-care maintenance.
(585) 597-7340 View (585) 597-7340
Photo of Dr. Jason Monahan, PhD, PMHNP-B, NEA-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Jason Monahan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-B, NEA-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellsville, NY 14895
Each patient should expect a thorough evaluation (history, symptoms, and overall functioning, discussing medical history, personal experiences, and any environmental factors). My treatment methods are grounded in evidence-based practices that may include psychotherapy, medication management, or a combination of both. I strive to provide care that is culturally informed and considers the diverse experiences of my patients. My ultimate goal is to help patients achieve a better quality of life.
Each patient should expect a thorough evaluation (history, symptoms, and overall functioning, discussing medical history, personal experiences, and any environmental factors). My treatment methods are grounded in evidence-based practices that may include psychotherapy, medication management, or a combination of both. I strive to provide care that is culturally informed and considers the diverse experiences of my patients. My ultimate goal is to help patients achieve a better quality of life.
(585) 632-6515 View (585) 632-6515
Photo of Sandra Boebel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sandra Boebel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victor, NY 14564  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, experienced at treating those age 16 and older with symptoms of depression, anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, Binge Eating, Autism Spectrum and thought disorders and/or those facing a difficult life transition. Although I prescribe medications when needed, I also can provide psychotherapy and a holistic approach where I consider all aspects of health as the potential cause of symptoms.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, experienced at treating those age 16 and older with symptoms of depression, anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADHD, Binge Eating, Autism Spectrum and thought disorders and/or those facing a difficult life transition. Although I prescribe medications when needed, I also can provide psychotherapy and a holistic approach where I consider all aspects of health as the potential cause of symptoms.
(585) 286-5067 View (585) 286-5067
Photo of Christy Williams, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Christy Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Waitlist for new clients
I started my career in behavioral health almost 20 years ago and have continued to expand my knowledge as a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner.  I graduated from Keuka college with a masters in nursing education in 2014 and went on to receive my PMHNP from Binghamton University in 2016 with high honors. My specialty area ranges across the lifespan with areas of interest including child, adolescent, LGBTQ, sexuality,  trauma and general wellness.  I keep up to date with evidence based practice and advocate fiercely for my patients.   I welcome everyone into my office not with judgement but with hope and compassion.
I started my career in behavioral health almost 20 years ago and have continued to expand my knowledge as a psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner.  I graduated from Keuka college with a masters in nursing education in 2014 and went on to receive my PMHNP from Binghamton University in 2016 with high honors. My specialty area ranges across the lifespan with areas of interest including child, adolescent, LGBTQ, sexuality,  trauma and general wellness.  I keep up to date with evidence based practice and advocate fiercely for my patients.   I welcome everyone into my office not with judgement but with hope and compassion.
(607) 703-2355 View (607) 703-2355
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Syracuse, NY 13212
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(315) 922-5619 View (315) 922-5619
Photo of Bruce Bassi - TelepsychHealth, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
TelepsychHealth
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14620
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
(904) 906-4649 View (904) 906-4649
Photo of Alisha M Waterstripe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alisha M Waterstripe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Sometimes we just need a little extra help. I want to help you make your journey a little easier. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for all mental health conditions. My goal is to find the right medication and dosage for each patient's needs, while minimizing side effects and risks.
Sometimes we just need a little extra help. I want to help you make your journey a little easier. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for all mental health conditions. My goal is to find the right medication and dosage for each patient's needs, while minimizing side effects and risks.
(315) 595-5486 View (315) 595-5486
Photo of Julie Middleton - Dynamic Emotional Wellness with Telemedicine, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dynamic Emotional Wellness with Telemedicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
East Syracuse, NY 13057
We are accepting new patients for both in office visits and telehealth! Our goal is to provide QUALITY mental health care services to all of our patients in a TIMELY manner. Call or email now and be seen within 2 weeks!
We are accepting new patients for both in office visits and telehealth! Our goal is to provide QUALITY mental health care services to all of our patients in a TIMELY manner. Call or email now and be seen within 2 weeks!
(315) 329-5212 View (315) 329-5212
Photo of Kola Alao - Syracuse TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Syracuse TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Trans-cranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that targets key areas of the brain that are less active in people with moderate to severe depression. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression, and it’s typically used when other treatments haven’t allowed you to experience remission from your depression. TMS is also being used for Anxiety, ADD, PTSD and is rapidly being considered by insurance companies for coverage outside of the current provision for moderate to severe depression. We have locations Fayetteville and Baldwinsville NY.
Trans-cranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that targets key areas of the brain that are less active in people with moderate to severe depression. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression, and it’s typically used when other treatments haven’t allowed you to experience remission from your depression. TMS is also being used for Anxiety, ADD, PTSD and is rapidly being considered by insurance companies for coverage outside of the current provision for moderate to severe depression. We have locations Fayetteville and Baldwinsville NY.
(315) 743-0988 View (315) 743-0988
Photo of Heather Henderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13219
Waitlist for new clients
The journey of life is unique and different for all of us. However, one of the common threads for us all is that this journey will be full of twists and turns and ups and downs. Heather will strive to assist you in navigating these twists and turns and ups and downs so that you are able to achieve wellness and your full potential.
The journey of life is unique and different for all of us. However, one of the common threads for us all is that this journey will be full of twists and turns and ups and downs. Heather will strive to assist you in navigating these twists and turns and ups and downs so that you are able to achieve wellness and your full potential.
(315) 564-4896 View (315) 564-4896
Photo of Angela Marie Manjgaladze, APRN, CNM, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Marie Manjgaladze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNM, PMNHP
Verified Verified
Victor, NY 14564
I am an experienced and passionate mental health care provider with hope to empower individuals in their own mental health care choices within a supportive network of resources. I will diligently work towards providing exceptional integrative mental health care within a trusted patient-provider relationship.
I am an experienced and passionate mental health care provider with hope to empower individuals in their own mental health care choices within a supportive network of resources. I will diligently work towards providing exceptional integrative mental health care within a trusted patient-provider relationship.
Photo of Dr. Brooke A. Finley, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, APHN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Brooke A. Finley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, PMHNP, CARN-AP, APHN-BC
Verified Verified
Canandaigua, NY 14424
Waitlist for new clients
Whatever challenges you face, it is my experience that you can work through them when you are motivated to explore what you don't know about yourself and have a good fit with a skilled psychotherapist who understands you. Respectively, I practice psychoanalytic psychotherapy, an approach that most therapists choose for themselves because it is so transformative. It is particularly helpful for long-term and difficult-to-change issues, providing long-lasting growth and psychic relief. While I won't give you "tools" or homework, I will help you foster new ways understanding your soul so you can create a satisfactory life worth living.
Whatever challenges you face, it is my experience that you can work through them when you are motivated to explore what you don't know about yourself and have a good fit with a skilled psychotherapist who understands you. Respectively, I practice psychoanalytic psychotherapy, an approach that most therapists choose for themselves because it is so transformative. It is particularly helpful for long-term and difficult-to-change issues, providing long-lasting growth and psychic relief. While I won't give you "tools" or homework, I will help you foster new ways understanding your soul so you can create a satisfactory life worth living.
(585) 310-8899 View (585) 310-8899
Photo of Holly Ann Woodard, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Holly Ann Woodard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Honeoye, NY 14471  (Online Only)
Hello, I am glad you are here! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner located in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. I have been practicing in multiple diverse mental health settings for the past 18 years including community clinics, inpatient hospitals, and community based mobile mental health care. I specialize in the child and adolescent population as well as have extensive experience with young adult and adult populations. My areas of expertise include: ADHD, trauma and stressor related disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and diagnostic assessments.
Hello, I am glad you are here! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner located in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. I have been practicing in multiple diverse mental health settings for the past 18 years including community clinics, inpatient hospitals, and community based mobile mental health care. I specialize in the child and adolescent population as well as have extensive experience with young adult and adult populations. My areas of expertise include: ADHD, trauma and stressor related disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, and diagnostic assessments.
(585) 676-3731 View (585) 676-3731
Photo of Kathleen Noe, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Noe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Do you struggle with depression or anxiety that affects your ability to function? Do you feel frustrated jumping from provider to provider, discouraged by the thought that there is no relief? Do you wonder if your day to day life could be better? I believe there is hope for relief. I offer integrative treatments, medication management and ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
Do you struggle with depression or anxiety that affects your ability to function? Do you feel frustrated jumping from provider to provider, discouraged by the thought that there is no relief? Do you wonder if your day to day life could be better? I believe there is hope for relief. I offer integrative treatments, medication management and ketamine assisted psychotherapy.
(585) 326-8558 View (585) 326-8558
Photo of Julie Middleton, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Middleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
East Syracuse, NY 13057
Welcome to Dynamic Emotional Wellness! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2013.. I recognize that each individual is unique and that psychiatric issues can be challenging. Clients who present to me are often struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADD or schizophrenia and benefit from the assistance that medications can provide. I work one-on-one with clients to develop a treatment program that they are comfortable with and that helps them move toward reaching their goals.
Welcome to Dynamic Emotional Wellness! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2013.. I recognize that each individual is unique and that psychiatric issues can be challenging. Clients who present to me are often struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADD or schizophrenia and benefit from the assistance that medications can provide. I work one-on-one with clients to develop a treatment program that they are comfortable with and that helps them move toward reaching their goals.
(315) 756-3198 View (315) 756-3198
Photo of Samantha R Lewis - Samantha R. Lewis, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha R. Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Binghamton, NY 13903
Thank you for considering me as a potential mental health provider for you or your loved one's mental health needs. I have over 17 years of clinical experience in the field of psychiatry/mental health. I have over 17 years of experience in the area of counseling especially with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I believe that the right fit with your mental health provider and having a safe place to work on personal growth and healing is critical. I also believe that trust, confidentiality, respect, consistency, and communication between a client and their mental health provider are very important factors to progress.
Thank you for considering me as a potential mental health provider for you or your loved one's mental health needs. I have over 17 years of clinical experience in the field of psychiatry/mental health. I have over 17 years of experience in the area of counseling especially with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I believe that the right fit with your mental health provider and having a safe place to work on personal growth and healing is critical. I also believe that trust, confidentiality, respect, consistency, and communication between a client and their mental health provider are very important factors to progress.
(607) 703-3226 View (607) 703-3226

See more therapy options for Cortland

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cortland, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Cortland, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis
100% Anger Management
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Other

How Psychiatrists in Cortland, NY see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

66% Male
34% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cortland?

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.