Psychiatrists in Gansevoort, NY

Photo of Jeanne Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP-BC, PMHNP, RN
Jeanne Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP-BC, PMHNP, RN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kids, preteens, teens, young adults, college students, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, attention, mood, focus, and decision making. I will thoroughly assess, diagnose, and provide treatment options in order to help you reach your goals as well as your potential in life.
Kids, preteens, teens, young adults, college students, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, attention, mood, focus, and decision making. I will thoroughly assess, diagnose, and provide treatment options in order to help you reach your goals as well as your potential in life.
(518) 667-8029 View (518) 667-8029

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nichole M. Orofino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Nichole M. Orofino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 788-7983 View (518) 788-7983
Photo of Bick Wanck, Psychiatrist, MD
Bick Wanck
Psychiatrist, MD
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Our practice is located at 401 Geyser Road, Saratoga Springs, NY with 12 mental health practitioners - therapists as well as prescribers - with an emphasis on psychotherapy and counseling. Please visit our website: www.bickwanckmdandassociates.com or contact the office at 518 583-3035 for further information. We accept commercial insurance only - no Medicare or Medicaid plans. You can also check out Bick’s author website at www.bickwanckmd.com to check out blogs and links to his book Mind Easing: the 3-layered healing plan for anxiety and depression.
Our practice is located at 401 Geyser Road, Saratoga Springs, NY with 12 mental health practitioners - therapists as well as prescribers - with an emphasis on psychotherapy and counseling. Please visit our website: www.bickwanckmdandassociates.com or contact the office at 518 583-3035 for further information. We accept commercial insurance only - no Medicare or Medicaid plans. You can also check out Bick’s author website at www.bickwanckmd.com to check out blogs and links to his book Mind Easing: the 3-layered healing plan for anxiety and depression.
(518) 650-3364 View (518) 650-3364
Photo of Amy Nistico, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy Nistico
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Clifton Park, NY 12065
I’m here to support you with genuine compassion on your journey toward better mental health. Your mental health matters, and I’m committed to walking beside you every step of the way—celebrating your progress and supporting you through setbacks. Let’s work together to create a journey that is as unique as you are, built on trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to healing.
I’m here to support you with genuine compassion on your journey toward better mental health. Your mental health matters, and I’m committed to walking beside you every step of the way—celebrating your progress and supporting you through setbacks. Let’s work together to create a journey that is as unique as you are, built on trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to healing.
(518) 666-7825 View (518) 666-7825
Photo of Sarah Covert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Sarah Covert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Seeking support for your mental health can feel overwhelming, particularly during periods of stress, transition, or uncertainty. You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. I strive to provide a compassionate, collaborative, and supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their care. I am a master’s-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment for adults. My clinical focus includes ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and mood disorders.
Seeking support for your mental health can feel overwhelming, particularly during periods of stress, transition, or uncertainty. You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. I strive to provide a compassionate, collaborative, and supportive environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their care. I am a master’s-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment for adults. My clinical focus includes ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and mood disorders.
(518) 348-4387 View (518) 348-4387
Photo of Jacquelyn Ransbury, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jacquelyn Ransbury
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals
(518) 788-7983 View (518) 788-7983
Photo of Heather Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Heather Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
9 Endorsed
Online Only
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 788-7983 View (518) 788-7983
Photo of Renette Casseus-Dametas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Renette Casseus-Dametas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health, including inpatient, outpatient, and detoxification settings. I currently work with adolescents in a school-based setting and provide virtual care to both adolescents and adults in private practice. I am committed to delivering culturally competent care with strong ethical sensitivity while supporting individuals in treatment within their natural living environments. My approach focuses on creating a safe, respectful space where clients feel heard, supported , and empowered in their mental health journey.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health, including inpatient, outpatient, and detoxification settings. I currently work with adolescents in a school-based setting and provide virtual care to both adolescents and adults in private practice. I am committed to delivering culturally competent care with strong ethical sensitivity while supporting individuals in treatment within their natural living environments. My approach focuses on creating a safe, respectful space where clients feel heard, supported , and empowered in their mental health journey.
(845) 834-9512 View (845) 834-9512
Photo of Laurie Pollard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP, BC
Laurie Pollard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP, BC
1 Endorsed
Clifton Park, NY 12065
Support and treatment consists of medication considerations, and therapeutic options designed for each individual. The main focus is on current issues and the needs presented on introduction and together we review treatment options and make a plan based on your interests and requests.
Support and treatment consists of medication considerations, and therapeutic options designed for each individual. The main focus is on current issues and the needs presented on introduction and together we review treatment options and make a plan based on your interests and requests.
(518) 288-2984 View (518) 288-2984
Photo of Sonya Blackmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sonya Blackmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Sonya Blackmer, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, offers integrative psychiatric care for children and adults, blending physical and mental health. With 10+ years in primary care, she specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders using a holistic, compassionate, and evidence-based approach.
Sonya Blackmer, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, offers integrative psychiatric care for children and adults, blending physical and mental health. With 10+ years in primary care, she specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders using a holistic, compassionate, and evidence-based approach.
(518) 310-5031 View (518) 310-5031
Photo of Ana Paulino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Ana Paulino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Mental health is the foundation of a life well-lived. With over two decades of clinical experience, I’ve seen how easy it is to lose your balance when the pressures of work, family, and modern life pile up. I established my virtual practice to remove the barriers between you and the evidence-based care you deserve.
Mental health is the foundation of a life well-lived. With over two decades of clinical experience, I’ve seen how easy it is to lose your balance when the pressures of work, family, and modern life pile up. I established my virtual practice to remove the barriers between you and the evidence-based care you deserve.
(518) 797-4779 View (518) 797-4779
Photo of Brianna Rader, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Brianna Rader
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, NPP-BC
Online Only
Brianna Rader, NPP received her master's degree from Sage Graduate School. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of New York. Previous experience as an in-patient RN in Crisis and Behavioral Health. Served active duty in the United States Army as a health care specialist.
Brianna Rader, NPP received her master's degree from Sage Graduate School. She is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of New York. Previous experience as an in-patient RN in Crisis and Behavioral Health. Served active duty in the United States Army as a health care specialist.
(518) 666-8872 View (518) 666-8872
Photo of Tempestt Black, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tempestt Black
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I look forward to meeting you! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and US Army Reservist with over 5 years of nursing experience. I'm skilled in providing exceptional care to my clients experiencing mental illness and substance abuse. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy treatment regimens to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety Disorder, and Depressive Disorders and enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ populations. 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.
Hi, I look forward to meeting you! I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and US Army Reservist with over 5 years of nursing experience. I'm skilled in providing exceptional care to my clients experiencing mental illness and substance abuse. I utilize medication management and psychotherapy treatment regimens to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety Disorder, and Depressive Disorders and enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ populations. 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) 730-3856 View (929) 730-3856
Photo of Elmer Jones Elma, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elmer Jones Elma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Cohoes, NY 12047
Not accepting new clients
Seeking support on your mental health journey? I offer compassionate, personalized care focused on building a stronger, healthier you. I believe in your unique potential for growth.
Seeking support on your mental health journey? I offer compassionate, personalized care focused on building a stronger, healthier you. I believe in your unique potential for growth.
(518) 800-3909 View (518) 800-3909
Photo of Patricia Hayden Schiller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Patricia Hayden Schiller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Clifton Park, NY 12065
No two situations are the same and mental health needs in particular are profoundly personal. Everyone deserves competent, individualized, respectful care, but mental health providers are in short supply, especially for those who may need medication management as part of their treatment plan. If a provider is even accepting new patients, wait times for an appointment can be long and appointment times that meet your needs may also be in short supply. In response to these obstacles, my practice is structured to provide as much flexibility as possible to provide personalized care and meet the individual needs of my patients.
No two situations are the same and mental health needs in particular are profoundly personal. Everyone deserves competent, individualized, respectful care, but mental health providers are in short supply, especially for those who may need medication management as part of their treatment plan. If a provider is even accepting new patients, wait times for an appointment can be long and appointment times that meet your needs may also be in short supply. In response to these obstacles, my practice is structured to provide as much flexibility as possible to provide personalized care and meet the individual needs of my patients.
(518) 286-5371 View (518) 286-5371
Photo of Quilon Wise, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Quilon Wise
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Many clients come to me because they feel weighed down by anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. Life can feel unpredictable and exhausting, and it can be difficult to know where to turn for support. Therapy can help empower you and provide the skills needed to recognize and challenge patterns that hold you back. Together, we’ll work toward building coping skills, personal growth, and stronger relationships. I have over 14 years of nursing experience, including addiction medicine, and have worked with diverse populations in community mental health settings.
Many clients come to me because they feel weighed down by anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. Life can feel unpredictable and exhausting, and it can be difficult to know where to turn for support. Therapy can help empower you and provide the skills needed to recognize and challenge patterns that hold you back. Together, we’ll work toward building coping skills, personal growth, and stronger relationships. I have over 14 years of nursing experience, including addiction medicine, and have worked with diverse populations in community mental health settings.
(929) 357-0933 View (929) 357-0933
Photo of Martin Oviasogie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Martin Oviasogie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Our work together will feel honest and useful, with a plan that makes sense for your life and gives you a real path forward. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults from diverse social and cultural backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals. I tailor care to the individual in front of me, taking the time to understand not only symptoms, but also stressors, history, relationships, and goals. Treatment may include medication, supportive therapy, and practical, evidence-based strategies to help you navigate everyday life.
Our work together will feel honest and useful, with a plan that makes sense for your life and gives you a real path forward. I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults from diverse social and cultural backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ individuals. I tailor care to the individual in front of me, taking the time to understand not only symptoms, but also stressors, history, relationships, and goals. Treatment may include medication, supportive therapy, and practical, evidence-based strategies to help you navigate everyday life.
(716) 300-6801 View (716) 300-6801
Photo of Mitchell Cabisudo - Vitality Psychiatry Group Practice, Psychiatrist, MD
Vitality Psychiatry Group Practice
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Mitchell Cabisudo is a double board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist who has been trained in different schools of psychotherapy and has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the use of life-saving medications. After completing his adult residency training in Albany, NY, he pursued further specialization in Pediatric Psychiatry at Westchester Medical Center. Dr. Cabisudo crucially understands the limitations and unfortunate repercussions of the use of medication. Therefore prior to contemplating to prescribing, he integrates the basic fundamentals yet profound complexities surrounding a person's life which can significantly dictate the overall changes in one's behavior and emotions.
Dr. Mitchell Cabisudo is a double board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist who has been trained in different schools of psychotherapy and has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the use of life-saving medications. After completing his adult residency training in Albany, NY, he pursued further specialization in Pediatric Psychiatry at Westchester Medical Center. Dr. Cabisudo crucially understands the limitations and unfortunate repercussions of the use of medication. Therefore prior to contemplating to prescribing, he integrates the basic fundamentals yet profound complexities surrounding a person's life which can significantly dictate the overall changes in one's behavior and emotions.
(914) 502-3998 View (914) 502-3998
Photo of Dr. Joseph Pierrot, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Joseph Pierrot
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Dr. Joseph Pierrot! I’m here to help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. My approach is focused on managing symptoms through a combination of therapy and medication, while also supporting you in reaching important goals. These goals may include reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, improving daily functioning, and strengthening relationships and social skills. I work closely with my patients, offering counseling and therapy to help them develop healthy coping strategies and better navigate the challenges of mental illness.
Hi, I’m Dr. Joseph Pierrot! I’m here to help individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, eating disorders, and schizophrenia. My approach is focused on managing symptoms through a combination of therapy and medication, while also supporting you in reaching important goals. These goals may include reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, improving daily functioning, and strengthening relationships and social skills. I work closely with my patients, offering counseling and therapy to help them develop healthy coping strategies and better navigate the challenges of mental illness.
(516) 447-3273 View (516) 447-3273
Photo of Anita F. Lopes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Anita F. Lopes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 788-7983 View (518) 788-7983

See more therapy options for Gansevoort

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Gansevoort, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Gansevoort, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Eating Disorders
100% Child
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Gansevoort, NY see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Gansevoort?

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.