Psychiatrists in Flushing, NY

Photo of John Lopez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11378  (Online Only)
My name is John Lopez, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I attended Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri, and completed my psychiatric training in a large hospital system in Orlando, Florida. My passion is to treat and nurture people's mental health across the lifespan through evidence-based practices and culturally appropriate care. My intended purpose is to help people reach their goals. I am fluent in English and Spanish and can perform psychiatric care in both languages.
My name is John Lopez, and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I attended Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri, and completed my psychiatric training in a large hospital system in Orlando, Florida. My passion is to treat and nurture people's mental health across the lifespan through evidence-based practices and culturally appropriate care. My intended purpose is to help people reach their goals. I am fluent in English and Spanish and can perform psychiatric care in both languages.
(332) 239-1847 View (332) 239-1847
Photo of Lily Tung, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lily Tung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11354  (Online Only)
Easy online booking, weekend/evening hours available! I'm Lily, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of nursing experience. I'm in-network with Aetna, Anthem BCBS, and Cigna, accepting patients from New York, New Jersey and Washington! I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disorders, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 15 and above. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, I am dedicated to holistic, patient-centered care, addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by people of color with empathy and understanding.
Easy online booking, weekend/evening hours available! I'm Lily, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of nursing experience. I'm in-network with Aetna, Anthem BCBS, and Cigna, accepting patients from New York, New Jersey and Washington! I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disorders, offering comprehensive care for patients aged 15 and above. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, I am dedicated to holistic, patient-centered care, addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by people of color with empathy and understanding.
(347) 934-4379 View (347) 934-4379
Photo of Keith Jenkins, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keith Jenkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11368  (Online Only)
My name is Keith, and I am a doctorly prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner with a diverse clinical background. I see clients statewide in New York who struggle with a diverse range of mental disorders. I primarily focus on the adult population with a special interest in mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD utilizing a patient-centric approach to helping these individuals thrive in their daily lives and to function to their maximum potential.
My name is Keith, and I am a doctorly prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner with a diverse clinical background. I see clients statewide in New York who struggle with a diverse range of mental disorders. I primarily focus on the adult population with a special interest in mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD utilizing a patient-centric approach to helping these individuals thrive in their daily lives and to function to their maximum potential.
(929) 493-4291 View (929) 493-4291
Photo of Wilmot lambert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Wilmot lambert
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11354
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
(929) 492-2496 View (929) 492-2496
Photo of Gundu Anupama Reddy - Online Psychiatrist in Queens, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Online Psychiatrist in Queens
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11354  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(347) 652-2669 View (347) 652-2669
Photo of Dr. Sarah Becker, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Sarah Becker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11367
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist servicing children, adolescents, and adults with a special interest in women's health. I completed my medical training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine where I was selected to join the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society. I completed my training in adult psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx and completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Zucker Hillside Hospital at Northwell Health in Long Island where I also served as chief fellow.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist servicing children, adolescents, and adults with a special interest in women's health. I completed my medical training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine where I was selected to join the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society. I completed my training in adult psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx and completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Zucker Hillside Hospital at Northwell Health in Long Island where I also served as chief fellow.
(718) 550-1294 View (718) 550-1294
Photo of David Abram Klein, MD, Psychiatrist
David Abram Klein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11358
My ideal client is one who wants to learn and grow as an individual and who isn’t afraid to explore the truth about themselves, their perceptions and their behaviors. They must be motivated to change their thinking and their behaviors so they can improve their relationships and overall functioning. They would also need to be honest when discussing their issues so that the problem(s) can be fully addressed. They need to be conversant so that we can do the work and flexible in accepting treatment recommendations.
My ideal client is one who wants to learn and grow as an individual and who isn’t afraid to explore the truth about themselves, their perceptions and their behaviors. They must be motivated to change their thinking and their behaviors so they can improve their relationships and overall functioning. They would also need to be honest when discussing their issues so that the problem(s) can be fully addressed. They need to be conversant so that we can do the work and flexible in accepting treatment recommendations.
(929) 325-0173 View (929) 325-0173
Photo of Gabriella Greco, DO, Psychiatrist
Gabriella Greco
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11378  (Online Only)
Dr. Gabriella Greco, D.O., is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. She emphasizes a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to the unique needs of each individual. Her strengths include working collaboratively with patients to achieve the best possible outcomes. Dr. Greco has experience working with adolescents and adults dealing with a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Gabriella Greco, D.O., is a Board Certified Psychiatrist. She emphasizes a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to the unique needs of each individual. Her strengths include working collaboratively with patients to achieve the best possible outcomes. Dr. Greco has experience working with adolescents and adults dealing with a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, ADHD, and substance use disorders.
(718) 307-1577 View (718) 307-1577
Photo of Micah B Engel, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Micah B Engel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11367
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified NP in Psychiatry trained at NYU and Touro University. I received several years of training and supervision at Four Winds Hospital and Mosaic Mental Health. I offer medication management and therapy for children and adults. My specialties include autism, pediatric ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety and OCD. I provide services in New York and New Jersey.
I am a board-certified NP in Psychiatry trained at NYU and Touro University. I received several years of training and supervision at Four Winds Hospital and Mosaic Mental Health. I offer medication management and therapy for children and adults. My specialties include autism, pediatric ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety and OCD. I provide services in New York and New Jersey.
(929) 362-4906 View (929) 362-4906
Photo of Wilmot Lambert, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wilmot Lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11378  (Online Only)
I believe that health -care should be individualized and cater to the specific needs of each person. I have experience in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcohol dependence, ADHD and eating disorders like binge eating and bulimia. In addition to my knowledge and expertise in treating psychiatric conditions, I have extensive training in primary care and chronic disease management including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease and degenerative joint disease management.
I believe that health -care should be individualized and cater to the specific needs of each person. I have experience in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcohol dependence, ADHD and eating disorders like binge eating and bulimia. In addition to my knowledge and expertise in treating psychiatric conditions, I have extensive training in primary care and chronic disease management including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease and degenerative joint disease management.
(332) 378-5270 View (332) 378-5270
Photo of Hope Okoroh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hope Okoroh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11378  (Online Only)
Hope is a board certified Family nurse practitioner who also specializes as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. Hope possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
Hope is a board certified Family nurse practitioner who also specializes as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. Hope possesses strong clinical skills enhanced by natural ability to build rapport with patients. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience, personal observation, and intuition.
(332) 895-2847 View (332) 895-2847
Photo of Lesego Goba, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lesego Goba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11378  (Online Only)
Lesego Goba, NP, has mental health clinical experience in multiple settings and is Board Certified to serve adolescents and adults who are faced with mental health challenges within the mood-disorder spectrum, particularly Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar disorder.
Lesego Goba, NP, has mental health clinical experience in multiple settings and is Board Certified to serve adolescents and adults who are faced with mental health challenges within the mood-disorder spectrum, particularly Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar disorder.
(332) 244-3878 View (332) 244-3878
Photo of Vera Cruz - LocalMD Psychiatry, PMHNP, MD, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LocalMD Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11378  (Online Only)
“Here to help” is an understatement at LocalMD. Our mission is to make sure that your mental and physical health can be improved in order to provide a better quality of life. We know that mental afflictions are just as serious as the physical ones, which is why we have a number of mental health services to make sure your mind is as sound as your body. We have an array of specialties here to serve your every need. Our Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems. Our Therapists are here to assist patients in reducing stress, improving emotionally, personal and relationship problems, and more!
“Here to help” is an understatement at LocalMD. Our mission is to make sure that your mental and physical health can be improved in order to provide a better quality of life. We know that mental afflictions are just as serious as the physical ones, which is why we have a number of mental health services to make sure your mind is as sound as your body. We have an array of specialties here to serve your every need. Our Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems. Our Therapists are here to assist patients in reducing stress, improving emotionally, personal and relationship problems, and more!
(332) 239-6214 View (332) 239-6214
Photo of Justin Yi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Justin Yi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11373  (Online Only)
I want to help guide individuals motivated and committed to their mental health journey. This includes individuals experiencing a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other psychiatric conditions that significantly impact their daily life.
I want to help guide individuals motivated and committed to their mental health journey. This includes individuals experiencing a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other psychiatric conditions that significantly impact their daily life.
(914) 430-0619 View (914) 430-0619
Photo of Marol Kerge, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marol Kerge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11368  (Online Only)
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, whether you're dealing with persistent anxiety, depression, or navigating the aftershocks of trauma. You may be feeling stuck, uncertain about how to move forward, or struggling to find balance amid life's challenges. Your goals might be simple, like finding peace in your daily life, or more complex, such as healing from past experiences. No matter where you're starting from, you're here because you want change—and I'm here to help you achieve it.
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, whether you're dealing with persistent anxiety, depression, or navigating the aftershocks of trauma. You may be feeling stuck, uncertain about how to move forward, or struggling to find balance amid life's challenges. Your goals might be simple, like finding peace in your daily life, or more complex, such as healing from past experiences. No matter where you're starting from, you're here because you want change—and I'm here to help you achieve it.
(646) 681-5223 View (646) 681-5223
Photo of Dr. Ariel Brown, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ariel Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11385  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the challenges of managing bipolar disorder or OCD. Perhaps you’re struggling with substance use and searching for a way out but unsure where to start. You want to regain control of your life, find relief from your symptoms, and discover a path that feels both sustainable and right for you. You deserve personalized, compassionate care that focuses on you as a whole person, not just your diagnosis. I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric care, combining evidence-based medication management with psychotherapy approaches such as CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the challenges of managing bipolar disorder or OCD. Perhaps you’re struggling with substance use and searching for a way out but unsure where to start. You want to regain control of your life, find relief from your symptoms, and discover a path that feels both sustainable and right for you. You deserve personalized, compassionate care that focuses on you as a whole person, not just your diagnosis. I specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric care, combining evidence-based medication management with psychotherapy approaches such as CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy.
(646) 687-2505 View (646) 687-2505
Photo of John Scandurra, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John Scandurra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11368  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling to manage your moods, or finding it difficult to focus due to ADHD? Maybe you've been battling with substance abuse, OCD, or the lingering effects of trauma. You're not alone, and seeking help is a powerful step toward reclaiming your life. Your goal is to find balance, relief, and a sense of peace, and it's entirely within your reach.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling to manage your moods, or finding it difficult to focus due to ADHD? Maybe you've been battling with substance abuse, OCD, or the lingering effects of trauma. You're not alone, and seeking help is a powerful step toward reclaiming your life. Your goal is to find balance, relief, and a sense of peace, and it's entirely within your reach.
(646) 863-4658 View (646) 863-4658
Photo of Vick Chodha - Focal Neuropsychiatric Services PC, MD, Psychiatrist
Focal Neuropsychiatric Services PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11354  (Online Only)
As I launch my telepsychiatry practice, I am dedicated to providing expert, patient-centered care ("Focal") for a wide range of mental health conditions. My goal is to offer comprehensive and effective treatment within a flexible and accessible virtual setting. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and completed my residency at Mount Sinai, and fellowship in sleep medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. Telepsychiatry provides timely, personalized support and helps reduce the stigma associated with mental health care, making the decision to seek help less intimidating and more approachable.
As I launch my telepsychiatry practice, I am dedicated to providing expert, patient-centered care ("Focal") for a wide range of mental health conditions. My goal is to offer comprehensive and effective treatment within a flexible and accessible virtual setting. I am board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and completed my residency at Mount Sinai, and fellowship in sleep medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. Telepsychiatry provides timely, personalized support and helps reduce the stigma associated with mental health care, making the decision to seek help less intimidating and more approachable.
(516) 440-5522 View (516) 440-5522
Photo of Jaime Mash, MD, Psychiatrist
Jaime Mash
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11367  (Online Only)
My name is Jaime Mash, MD, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to adults. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include women's mental health, trauma, PTSD, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
My name is Jaime Mash, MD, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering online medication management to adults. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include women's mental health, trauma, PTSD, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(213) 668-7548 View (213) 668-7548
Photo of William R Winter, MD, FAAP, Psychiatrist
William R Winter
Psychiatrist, MD, FAAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11373
I'm a child and adolescent psychiatrist based in Manhattan and Queens. Areas of interest include ADHD, behavioral issues, anxiety and phobias, academic, social and family problems. I enjoy doing therapy, i.e. cognitive and behavioral therapy, play therapy and family therapy. Medication is prescribed when clinically warranted. The focus of the practice is working with children, teenagers, and their families.
I'm a child and adolescent psychiatrist based in Manhattan and Queens. Areas of interest include ADHD, behavioral issues, anxiety and phobias, academic, social and family problems. I enjoy doing therapy, i.e. cognitive and behavioral therapy, play therapy and family therapy. Medication is prescribed when clinically warranted. The focus of the practice is working with children, teenagers, and their families.
(646) 593-8299 View (646) 593-8299
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Flushing, NY

80+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Flushing, NY who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
74% ADHD
68% Bipolar Disorder
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
65% Medication Management
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Flushing, NY see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

62% Female
37% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Flushing?

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.