Psychiatrists in Hampton Bays, NY
Catherine Poulos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hampton Bays, NY 11946
At East End Mental Health, we believe in the integrative approach to behavioral health and psychiatric care. We offer our clients comprehensive array of treatment options which include individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychotherapy groups, psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacotherapies, and laboratory diagnostic/genetic testing services.
At East End Mental Health, we believe in the integrative approach to behavioral health and psychiatric care. We offer our clients comprehensive array of treatment options which include individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychotherapy groups, psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacotherapies, and laboratory diagnostic/genetic testing services.
Lauren Hertwig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hampton Bays, NY 11946
I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner in Family Health and Psychiatry who provides treatment to patients across the lifespan. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population with psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, and alternative modalities of treatment.
I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner in Family Health and Psychiatry who provides treatment to patients across the lifespan. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population with psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, and alternative modalities of treatment.
Susan Mogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, ANP-BC, AP-PMN, AHPCN
Verified Verified
Hampton Bays, NY 11946
Together through a trusting relationship clients and I will develop treatment plans that best suit each clients needs. I have practiced in multiple settings including office based, hospitals, Hospice/palliative care and home-care. My vast experience has provided a knowledge base that will help to provide the best care for my clients. I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorders and the symptoms of dementia. I am open-minded, warm and inquisitive and am passionate about helping others. I look forward to becoming a part of the community and helping as many clients as I can.
Together through a trusting relationship clients and I will develop treatment plans that best suit each clients needs. I have practiced in multiple settings including office based, hospitals, Hospice/palliative care and home-care. My vast experience has provided a knowledge base that will help to provide the best care for my clients. I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorders and the symptoms of dementia. I am open-minded, warm and inquisitive and am passionate about helping others. I look forward to becoming a part of the community and helping as many clients as I can.
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Carol Ann Payton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978
Over the past 18 years, I have gained knowledge and experience to provide mental health and wellness needs to our community. I have dedicated my life to healthcare in many aspects, including in-patient and out-patient care, leadership, and quality. I have achieved a Master's in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner 2016 (FNP), a Master’s in Business Administration 2020 (MBA), and a Master's as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (2021). I am board certified and provide treatment across the patient's life span. I also provide psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and other modalities to meet patients Mental Health needs.
Over the past 18 years, I have gained knowledge and experience to provide mental health and wellness needs to our community. I have dedicated my life to healthcare in many aspects, including in-patient and out-patient care, leadership, and quality. I have achieved a Master's in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner 2016 (FNP), a Master’s in Business Administration 2020 (MBA), and a Master's as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (2021). I am board certified and provide treatment across the patient's life span. I also provide psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and other modalities to meet patients Mental Health needs.
Telepsychiatry Services in Hampton New York
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southampton, NY 11968 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
Sylvia Andreatto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mattituck, NY 11952 (Online Only)
I find it very fulfilling to work with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety and other mood problems. These difficulties often stem from traumatic past and negative thought patterns and they can be changed. My patients strive to create meaningful lives with sense of purpose, connection with others, joy and serenity. Unfortunately, mental scars from traumatic events, addictions, dysfunctional relationships, brain chemical imbalance and self-defeating thoughts and behavior patterns, are often the obstacles to the life they want for themselves.
I find it very fulfilling to work with people who are experiencing depression, anxiety and other mood problems. These difficulties often stem from traumatic past and negative thought patterns and they can be changed. My patients strive to create meaningful lives with sense of purpose, connection with others, joy and serenity. Unfortunately, mental scars from traumatic events, addictions, dysfunctional relationships, brain chemical imbalance and self-defeating thoughts and behavior patterns, are often the obstacles to the life they want for themselves.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist in New York, practicing via Telemedicine and accepting new patients residing in New York and Florida. I did my psychiatric training at The University of the State of New York and have over 50 years of experience.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist in New York, practicing via Telemedicine and accepting new patients residing in New York and Florida. I did my psychiatric training at The University of the State of New York and have over 50 years of experience.
At Creative Care Psychiatry, we know that each person comes with his/her/their own unique set of experiences. With this understanding we apply the highest standard of evidenced based medicine to a patient-centered treatment approach. Patients are active participants in the development of their treatment plans. It is our belief that health and wellness come with an holistic approach to patient care.
At Creative Care Psychiatry, we know that each person comes with his/her/their own unique set of experiences. With this understanding we apply the highest standard of evidenced based medicine to a patient-centered treatment approach. Patients are active participants in the development of their treatment plans. It is our belief that health and wellness come with an holistic approach to patient care.
I believe that healing begins at the level of mind, body and spirit, integrating a patient’s whole life experience into the treatment plan. I provide comprehensive treatment options combining psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities. Working with me you will develop insight into yourself and begin to effect change and make progress in the problem areas of your life. I am ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry. In addition to treating addictions, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders; I specialize in women's mental health.
I believe that healing begins at the level of mind, body and spirit, integrating a patient’s whole life experience into the treatment plan. I provide comprehensive treatment options combining psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities. Working with me you will develop insight into yourself and begin to effect change and make progress in the problem areas of your life. I am ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry. In addition to treating addictions, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders; I specialize in women's mental health.
Sharlene Willock
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southampton, NY 11968
Hello, my name is Sharlene and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University. I have over 22 years of nursing experience. My specializations include Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and some bipolar. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
Hello, my name is Sharlene and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I graduated with my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Arizona State University. I have over 22 years of nursing experience. My specializations include Anxiety, depression, ADHD, and some bipolar. I work at Lavender where we believe that psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive, intimidating or impossible to access.
Nader Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MD
Verified Verified
Water Mill, NY 11976 (Online Only)
Distinguished Board Certified Psychiatrist, brings specialized expertise in General Adult Psychiatry from Harvard University and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) from Boston University. Dual Board Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, coupled with recognition as a Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, attests to his competence. Across inpatient, outpatient, and medical units, his career embraces an integrated care ethos, effectively tending to patients of diverse backgrounds and ages in an evidence-based approach.
Distinguished Board Certified Psychiatrist, brings specialized expertise in General Adult Psychiatry from Harvard University and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) from Boston University. Dual Board Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, coupled with recognition as a Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist by the American Board of Preventive Medicine, attests to his competence. Across inpatient, outpatient, and medical units, his career embraces an integrated care ethos, effectively tending to patients of diverse backgrounds and ages in an evidence-based approach.
Dr. Christopher Zeoli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901 (Online Only)
Has the road you’ve been traveling seem extra hard these days? Are you weighed down by the burdens of depression, anxiety, troubling memories from the past? Are you having difficulty enjoying the things that you once enjoyed? Are you feeling socially disconnected? The world has been a stressful place these days, and everyone needs some help sometimes. There are many psychiatric prescribers, but not many who also do EMDR therapy. There are many EMDR therapists, but not many who can also prescribe medications. I am trained to be able to offer both of these therapeutic modalities.
Has the road you’ve been traveling seem extra hard these days? Are you weighed down by the burdens of depression, anxiety, troubling memories from the past? Are you having difficulty enjoying the things that you once enjoyed? Are you feeling socially disconnected? The world has been a stressful place these days, and everyone needs some help sometimes. There are many psychiatric prescribers, but not many who also do EMDR therapy. There are many EMDR therapists, but not many who can also prescribe medications. I am trained to be able to offer both of these therapeutic modalities.
Heart and Soul Community Counseling, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Quogue, NY 11942
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
We are an outpatient mental health center that has been serving the Long Island community for 30 years. We currently have three offices in West Babylon and Wantagh and in East Quogue NY. Heart & Soul offers medication management, genetic testing for medication, therapy and counseling, drama workshops and education and training for therapists and nurse practitioners.
Are you overwhelmed with feeling depressed or anxious? Do tension, fears and irritability take a big bite out your day? Is it hard to get out of bed on some days or to sleep on others? Is it difficult to concentrate on anything else besides how you feel? Do negative feelings stand in your way? Do work, relationships and interests seem to fall by the wayside? Sometimes we can get overwhelmed by life’s stressors and we don’t know how to deal with it on our own. I understand how these struggles can hurt, and I am here to help you get relief from these symptoms.
Are you overwhelmed with feeling depressed or anxious? Do tension, fears and irritability take a big bite out your day? Is it hard to get out of bed on some days or to sleep on others? Is it difficult to concentrate on anything else besides how you feel? Do negative feelings stand in your way? Do work, relationships and interests seem to fall by the wayside? Sometimes we can get overwhelmed by life’s stressors and we don’t know how to deal with it on our own. I understand how these struggles can hurt, and I am here to help you get relief from these symptoms.
Dr. Senter studied psychology at Brown University. She attended medical school at Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She subsequently completed her residency in psychiatry at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, where she served as a chief resident and worked with the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder research group. Dr. Senter has experience working as an attending psychiatrist in emergency room and outpatient community mental health settings.
Dr. Senter studied psychology at Brown University. She attended medical school at Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She subsequently completed her residency in psychiatry at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, where she served as a chief resident and worked with the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder research group. Dr. Senter has experience working as an attending psychiatrist in emergency room and outpatient community mental health settings.
Frederick Scholl Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverhead, NY 11901
Frederick Scholl MSN, APRN, PMHNP is a board-certified practitioner in psychiatry, licensed and registered in NYS. He specializes in treating a number of conditions with medication, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. In addition, we are now offering medication assisted treatment with Suboxone for opioid dependence. Frederick is a consultant for several area hospitals. His extensive experience includes emergency psychiatry, geriatric, adult, forensic and outpatient care.
Frederick Scholl MSN, APRN, PMHNP is a board-certified practitioner in psychiatry, licensed and registered in NYS. He specializes in treating a number of conditions with medication, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. In addition, we are now offering medication assisted treatment with Suboxone for opioid dependence. Frederick is a consultant for several area hospitals. His extensive experience includes emergency psychiatry, geriatric, adult, forensic and outpatient care.
I am a Columbia-trained general and addiction psychiatrist and researcher. My practice focuses on delivering high-quality treatment to a small number of patients. I focus on complex substance use, co-morbid/dual diagnoses cases such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression, and behavioral addictions such as sex/gaming addiction. I conduct both talk therapy and use medications in my practice and work with both patients and their families. The goal is transformative change in behavior patterns to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
I am a Columbia-trained general and addiction psychiatrist and researcher. My practice focuses on delivering high-quality treatment to a small number of patients. I focus on complex substance use, co-morbid/dual diagnoses cases such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression, and behavioral addictions such as sex/gaming addiction. I conduct both talk therapy and use medications in my practice and work with both patients and their families. The goal is transformative change in behavior patterns to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
Amanda Kozakiewicz Ragona
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website! - Taking the step to self-help can be nerve-wracking and hard. I take pride in providing a listening ear, compassionate heart, and open mind. I have a Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I am Board Certified. I also have an additional Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! - Taking the step to self-help can be nerve-wracking and hard. I take pride in providing a listening ear, compassionate heart, and open mind. I have a Master's degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I am Board Certified. I also have an additional Bachelor's degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences.
I am accepting new patients and have availability within 2 weeks. I am a psychiatric medical doctor in private practice offering very detailed psychiatric evaluations, and integrated psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I would be happy to do medication consults for people who already have a therapist- and I will actively communicate and coordinate care with your therapist. I'm also a skilled, empathic psychotherapist as well as a psychopharmacologist, so you can avoid splitting your treatment. I treat people with depressions, bipolar disorders,anxiety, panic, obsessions, compulsions, schizophrenia, and
I am accepting new patients and have availability within 2 weeks. I am a psychiatric medical doctor in private practice offering very detailed psychiatric evaluations, and integrated psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I would be happy to do medication consults for people who already have a therapist- and I will actively communicate and coordinate care with your therapist. I'm also a skilled, empathic psychotherapist as well as a psychopharmacologist, so you can avoid splitting your treatment. I treat people with depressions, bipolar disorders,anxiety, panic, obsessions, compulsions, schizophrenia, and
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
See more therapy options for Hampton Bays
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hampton Bays, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hampton Bays, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
67% | 1199SEIU |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Hampton Bays, 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 Hampton Bays?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.