Psychiatrists in East Syracuse, NY

Photo of Judith H. Fager, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, ANP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judith H. Fager
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, ANP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057
Judith H. Fager is a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP), who runs her private practice with a wealth of experience in the field of psychiatry. Judith provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to her patients. As a Psychiatric NP, Judith holds advanced degrees in nursing and specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Her practice encompasses a broad range of services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, therapy, and counseling. Judith adopts a patient-centered approach, actively listening to her patients' concerns.
Judith H. Fager is a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP), who runs her private practice with a wealth of experience in the field of psychiatry. Judith provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to her patients. As a Psychiatric NP, Judith holds advanced degrees in nursing and specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Her practice encompasses a broad range of services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, therapy, and counseling. Judith adopts a patient-centered approach, actively listening to her patients' concerns.
(315) 754-9793 View (315) 754-9793
Photo of Kourtney Darrow, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kourtney Darrow
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057  (Online Only)
I am here to help service those struggling to find the right medication regimens to help their mental health state. I love creating a treatment plan that leaves patients feeling comfortable and confident about the direction we navigate their care. I aim to collaborate with patients so they feel their voice has been heard and their needs have been met.
I am here to help service those struggling to find the right medication regimens to help their mental health state. I love creating a treatment plan that leaves patients feeling comfortable and confident about the direction we navigate their care. I aim to collaborate with patients so they feel their voice has been heard and their needs have been met.
(315) 993-6187 View (315) 993-6187
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 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 Stephanie Mancini Hughes, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Mancini Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
East Syracuse, NY 13057
I strive to help those suffering with mental health issues and to give them a better quality of life. We will work as a team to develop an appropriate treatment plan to make this goal attainable.
I strive to help those suffering with mental health issues and to give them a better quality of life. We will work as a team to develop an appropriate treatment plan to make this goal attainable.
(315) 626-8467 View (315) 626-8467
Photo of Yichao Zhang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yichao Zhang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057
Don't let your mental illness become your identity and define who you are. I'm Yichao Zhang, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm currently accepting new clients who are looking for medication management and individual counseling for the betterment of their mental health.
Don't let your mental illness become your identity and define who you are. I'm Yichao Zhang, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm currently accepting new clients who are looking for medication management and individual counseling for the betterment of their mental health.
(315) 291-8816 View (315) 291-8816

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nicole Walters - NestCalm, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP, PMH-C, IBCLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
NestCalm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, WHNP, PMH-C, IBCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13201  (Online Only)
Empowering Women to Flourish with Holistic Mental Health Care. Hi, I'm Nicole, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, midwife, reproductive specialist, fertility coach, women's mental health provider, , wife to the OG hubs; love of my life, and blessed momma of 3 sweet boys, owner of NestCalm, a psychiatry/women's health clinic. I am also an infertility conqueror, miscarriage survivor, preterm momma, postpartum anxiety defeater, pelvic floor dysfunction ass kicker, breastfeeding issues victor and ADHD overcomer! WomenWellLife / MomLife is no joke!
Empowering Women to Flourish with Holistic Mental Health Care. Hi, I'm Nicole, a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, midwife, reproductive specialist, fertility coach, women's mental health provider, , wife to the OG hubs; love of my life, and blessed momma of 3 sweet boys, owner of NestCalm, a psychiatry/women's health clinic. I am also an infertility conqueror, miscarriage survivor, preterm momma, postpartum anxiety defeater, pelvic floor dysfunction ass kicker, breastfeeding issues victor and ADHD overcomer! WomenWellLife / MomLife is no joke!
(646) 332-0852 View (646) 332-0852
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 Anton Dragonetti, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anton Dragonetti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13201  (Online Only)
I believe in using evidence-based practice and treatment modalities. I take the extra time to complete prior authorizations so clients have the access to the newest medication needed to treat their mental health conditions. I strive to look at each individual holistically and focus on holistic treatment which includes: medication management, nutrition, exercise and sleep hygiene practices.
I believe in using evidence-based practice and treatment modalities. I take the extra time to complete prior authorizations so clients have the access to the newest medication needed to treat their mental health conditions. I strive to look at each individual holistically and focus on holistic treatment which includes: medication management, nutrition, exercise and sleep hygiene practices.
(347) 599-9483 View (347) 599-9483
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 Katrina Millard, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katrina Millard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13210  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Katrina and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues and Insomnia & Sleep Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Katrina and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Family Issues and Insomnia & Sleep Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 470-1524 View (929) 470-1524
Photo of Brenda Lis, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brenda Lis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NY 13066
Having grown up in an economically disadvantaged community, I witnessed the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their families; and having raised three children on my own, I know what it is to struggle. My experiences fueled my passion for mental health care, and I bring this empathy and understanding to every patient interaction. I am deeply committed to helping my patients overcome their challenges and treating each individual with the same care and attention I would give to my own loved ones.
Having grown up in an economically disadvantaged community, I witnessed the toll that mental illness can take on individuals and their families; and having raised three children on my own, I know what it is to struggle. My experiences fueled my passion for mental health care, and I bring this empathy and understanding to every patient interaction. I am deeply committed to helping my patients overcome their challenges and treating each individual with the same care and attention I would give to my own loved ones.
(716) 354-1077 View (716) 354-1077
Photo of Rosetta Richards - Rosetta Richards At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rosetta Richards At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Rosetta Richards is a Board-Certified Adult and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York and New Jersey. Rosetta received her Adult NP from Stony Brook University in 1999 and her Psychiatric NP from Molloy University in 2012. She has over twenty years of inpatient experience. She is qualified and experienced in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across their lifespans.
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Rosetta Richards is a Board-Certified Adult and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York and New Jersey. Rosetta received her Adult NP from Stony Brook University in 1999 and her Psychiatric NP from Molloy University in 2012. She has over twenty years of inpatient experience. She is qualified and experienced in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across their lifespans.
(518) 839-2098 View (518) 839-2098
Photo of Sean Murphy - Sean Murphy, PMHNP, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sean Murphy, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13244  (Online Only)
If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help patients improve their lives. I bring to clinic a commitment to offering you collaborative, kind, affirming, and personalized care.
If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help patients improve their lives. I bring to clinic a commitment to offering you collaborative, kind, affirming, and personalized care.
(929) 325-0206 View (929) 325-0206
Photo of Andrew Curtin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrew Curtin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Not accepting new clients
As a former combat veteran I focus a great deal of my practice on trauma informed care and treating PTSD. My journey in the military led me to my career in nursing and later psychiatry. I have many patients that are current or former military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT's and medical staff of various disciplines. I also am very experienced with treating: anxiety, panic disorders, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
As a former combat veteran I focus a great deal of my practice on trauma informed care and treating PTSD. My journey in the military led me to my career in nursing and later psychiatry. I have many patients that are current or former military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT's and medical staff of various disciplines. I also am very experienced with treating: anxiety, panic disorders, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
(315) 291-8214 View (315) 291-8214
Empower Psychiatric NP Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13201
We are locally owned and operated in Auburn, NY and serve Cayuga and surrounding counties. We offer face-to-face office visits as well as virtual. We offer a wide spectrum of mental health services, including therapy and medication management. We specialize with children-adolescents and adults. Our New York State-licensed psychiatric providers include board-certified nurse practitioners and licensed therapists. See the difference and book a session today.
We are locally owned and operated in Auburn, NY and serve Cayuga and surrounding counties. We offer face-to-face office visits as well as virtual. We offer a wide spectrum of mental health services, including therapy and medication management. We specialize with children-adolescents and adults. Our New York State-licensed psychiatric providers include board-certified nurse practitioners and licensed therapists. See the difference and book a session today.
(315) 232-6761 View (315) 232-6761
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Syracuse, NY 13201
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(914) 506-5391 View (914) 506-5391
Photo of Dr. Archana Kathpal, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Archana Kathpal
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104
If you’re facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or stress, and need expert medication management, you’re in the right place. As one of the few psychiatrists in the area with triple board certification in Adult, Child/Adolescent, and Forensic Psychiatry, I specialize primarily in working with children and adolescents, bringing extensive expertise to address their unique needs. Additionally, I provide comprehensive care for adults. In my practice, I take inspiration from the Sanskrit word “Vihaan,” meaning sunrise, aiming to help each patient experience a new dawn in their mental health journey.
If you’re facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or stress, and need expert medication management, you’re in the right place. As one of the few psychiatrists in the area with triple board certification in Adult, Child/Adolescent, and Forensic Psychiatry, I specialize primarily in working with children and adolescents, bringing extensive expertise to address their unique needs. Additionally, I provide comprehensive care for adults. In my practice, I take inspiration from the Sanskrit word “Vihaan,” meaning sunrise, aiming to help each patient experience a new dawn in their mental health journey.
(315) 908-0912 View (315) 908-0912
Photo of Mobolaji Rosanwo, DNP, PHMNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mobolaji Rosanwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Mobolaji Rosanwo is dedicated to improving the well-being of the clients we serve through telepsychiatry and, ( in-person) mental health services when needed. We take various approaches to address each condition. We listen to their needs, understand the nature of their condition, and create the best treatment plan that is suitable for them.
Mobolaji Rosanwo is dedicated to improving the well-being of the clients we serve through telepsychiatry and, ( in-person) mental health services when needed. We take various approaches to address each condition. We listen to their needs, understand the nature of their condition, and create the best treatment plan that is suitable for them.
(410) 755-5293 View (410) 755-5293
Photo of Jennifer MacQueen, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer MacQueen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13210  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jennifer and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Religion/Spirituality, Relationship Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Life Transitions, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Family Issues, Depression, Chronic Illness and Anxiety. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jennifer and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Religion/Spirituality, Relationship Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Loss/Grief/Bereavement, Life Transitions, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Family Issues, Depression, Chronic Illness and Anxiety. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(929) 225-8493 View (929) 225-8493

See more therapy options for East Syracuse

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in East Syracuse, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in East Syracuse, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Veterans

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Other

How Psychiatrists in East Syracuse, NY see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in East Syracuse?

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.