Psychiatrists in Hicksville, NY

Photo of Julie N Van-Lare - Julie Van-Lare-JVL Mental Health Consult, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julie Van-Lare-JVL Mental Health Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
JVL is dedicated to embracing a patient-centered philosophy that underscores a unique approach to mental health care. Provider prioritizes the essential act of actively listening to individuals, fostering a collaborative relationship aimed at co-creating a personalized treatment plan. This plan is meticulously tailored to align with the unique needs and aspirations of each individual client.
JVL is dedicated to embracing a patient-centered philosophy that underscores a unique approach to mental health care. Provider prioritizes the essential act of actively listening to individuals, fostering a collaborative relationship aimed at co-creating a personalized treatment plan. This plan is meticulously tailored to align with the unique needs and aspirations of each individual client.
(516) 973-1797 View (516) 973-1797
Photo of Harsimranjit Singh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
Harsimranjit Singh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN
2 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, psychosis, and trauma. I offer thoughtful, evidence-based medication management combined with supportive therapy, always tailored to your unique story, needs, and goals. My priority is to create a safe, understanding space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered in your journey toward healing
I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, psychosis, and trauma. I offer thoughtful, evidence-based medication management combined with supportive therapy, always tailored to your unique story, needs, and goals. My priority is to create a safe, understanding space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered in your journey toward healing
(516) 715-2341 View (516) 715-2341
Photo of Ali Khan, Psychiatrist, MD
Ali Khan
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
I am a Clinical Assistant Professor in Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Inpatient Medical Director at Bellevue Hospital/NYU and Per-diem ER psychiatrist at Cohen's Children Hospital. My professional background involves working in inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and community treatment, catering to individuals across all age groups. Beyond clinical practice, I have actively engaged with national medical organizations and contributed to initiatives supporting both physicians and patients. I have published widely in the form of case reports, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis.
I am a Clinical Assistant Professor in Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Inpatient Medical Director at Bellevue Hospital/NYU and Per-diem ER psychiatrist at Cohen's Children Hospital. My professional background involves working in inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and community treatment, catering to individuals across all age groups. Beyond clinical practice, I have actively engaged with national medical organizations and contributed to initiatives supporting both physicians and patients. I have published widely in the form of case reports, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis.
(516) 914-8344 View (516) 914-8344
Photo of Guillermo Diaz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Guillermo Diaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
As an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based out of Long Island, NY, I offer adult patients high quality psychiatric services in the comfort of their own homes. Whether for privacy concerns, busy schedules, or difficulty getting outside, my patients are provided with a full array of psychiatry services for their mental health needs via tele-health. Conditions treated include ADHD, depression, anxiety, dementia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and most other conditions as well. I offer evening and weekend appointments and work exclusively with adults 18 and over. Same day appts often accommodated.
As an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based out of Long Island, NY, I offer adult patients high quality psychiatric services in the comfort of their own homes. Whether for privacy concerns, busy schedules, or difficulty getting outside, my patients are provided with a full array of psychiatry services for their mental health needs via tele-health. Conditions treated include ADHD, depression, anxiety, dementia, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and most other conditions as well. I offer evening and weekend appointments and work exclusively with adults 18 and over. Same day appts often accommodated.
(516) 788-6464 View (516) 788-6464
Photo of Fahimir Jean-Baptiste, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Fahimir Jean-Baptiste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I’m Fahimir Jean-Baptiste, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Doctorate of Science in Nursing from Hofstra University. My clinical experience spans both inpatient and outpatient settings, allowing me to support individuals at various stages of their mental health journeys
I’m Fahimir Jean-Baptiste, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a Doctorate of Science in Nursing from Hofstra University. My clinical experience spans both inpatient and outpatient settings, allowing me to support individuals at various stages of their mental health journeys
(516) 217-4842 View (516) 217-4842
Photo of Aline Lys Rabel - Healthy Minds Of New York NP in Psychiatry PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Healthy Minds Of New York NP in Psychiatry PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hicksville, NY 11801
I spent almost a decade of my career working in a New York State inpatient psychiatric hospital. This experience has assisted me in the understanding of psychiatric presentations and the manifestation of mental disorders. I’m very companionable and treat my patients with respect. I find it most important to create a safe, non-judgmental and comfortable environment for my patients. I pride myself in my innate ability of creating a therapeutic atmosphere which allows my patients to express their needs, experiences and together create a self-centered treatment goal oriented plan.
I spent almost a decade of my career working in a New York State inpatient psychiatric hospital. This experience has assisted me in the understanding of psychiatric presentations and the manifestation of mental disorders. I’m very companionable and treat my patients with respect. I find it most important to create a safe, non-judgmental and comfortable environment for my patients. I pride myself in my innate ability of creating a therapeutic atmosphere which allows my patients to express their needs, experiences and together create a self-centered treatment goal oriented plan.
(516) 928-4148 View (516) 928-4148
Photo of Jennifer DeSetto, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Jennifer DeSetto
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
Life can be so busy at times that we often put our mental health on the back burner. It is so important to make sure we are well mentally so that we can function physically. I am a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner, who can diagnose and treat many mental health conditions. Each client is an individual with different needs and treatment plans. I take every aspect of your life into consideration before making a decision about treatment. I believe each person is deserving of feeling their best and functioning at their optimum abilities and I will work with you to meet this goal.
Life can be so busy at times that we often put our mental health on the back burner. It is so important to make sure we are well mentally so that we can function physically. I am a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner, who can diagnose and treat many mental health conditions. Each client is an individual with different needs and treatment plans. I take every aspect of your life into consideration before making a decision about treatment. I believe each person is deserving of feeling their best and functioning at their optimum abilities and I will work with you to meet this goal.
(516) 363-4117 View (516) 363-4117
Photo of Simi Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Simi Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, graduated in 2013 who has a doctorate degree. I have diverse experience in various hospitals and outpatient clinics, with an emphasis on Psychiatry and is good in medication management. I am affiliated with many local hospitals and also collaborates with physicians in different medical groups. I provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to young adults and adults who live with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, psychosis, and depression.
I am a Board Certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, graduated in 2013 who has a doctorate degree. I have diverse experience in various hospitals and outpatient clinics, with an emphasis on Psychiatry and is good in medication management. I am affiliated with many local hospitals and also collaborates with physicians in different medical groups. I provide compassionate and comprehensive mental health services to young adults and adults who live with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, psychosis, and depression.
(516) 266-2124 View (516) 266-2124
Photo of Efraim J. Keisari - Efraim J. Keisari, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Efraim J. Keisari, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Asking for help can be hard. Finding the right psychiatrist for you can be hard. As a board certified psychiatrist with a small patient-centered practice, I strive to create a personalized and thoughtful experience for you. I treat adults of all ages with a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various phobias. We can address issues such as sleeping difficulties (insomnia), relationship challenges, work stress, and life stage transitions.
Asking for help can be hard. Finding the right psychiatrist for you can be hard. As a board certified psychiatrist with a small patient-centered practice, I strive to create a personalized and thoughtful experience for you. I treat adults of all ages with a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various phobias. We can address issues such as sleeping difficulties (insomnia), relationship challenges, work stress, and life stage transitions.
(212) 287-5888 View (212) 287-5888
Photo of Jane Nwankwo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Jane Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand that seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health challenge, my ultimate goal is to help you understand your feelings and find effective ways to cope. What makes my approach unique is my dedication to treating the whole person. I take the time to listen, understand your individual needs, and develop a plan that works for you. Combining evidence-based therapies and medication management, I focus on personalized care to address the root cause of your concerns.
I understand that seeking mental health support can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other mental health challenge, my ultimate goal is to help you understand your feelings and find effective ways to cope. What makes my approach unique is my dedication to treating the whole person. I take the time to listen, understand your individual needs, and develop a plan that works for you. Combining evidence-based therapies and medication management, I focus on personalized care to address the root cause of your concerns.
(516) 604-7456 View (516) 604-7456
Photo of Dr. Tazeen Azfar, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tazeen Azfar
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I’m a child, adolescent and adult's psychiatrist Accepting NEW patients (ages 5–55) across New York via telepsychiatry, providing flexible access to comprehensive and personalized mental health care. My approach is integrative, individualized and unhurried. I specialize in ADHD, autism, anxiety, OCD, depression, mood and behavioral disorders. My practice is out-of-network and does not participate directly with insurance plans. I provide superbills that you may submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement, depending on your out-of-network benefits. to verify your coverage for out-of-network psychiatric services.
I’m a child, adolescent and adult's psychiatrist Accepting NEW patients (ages 5–55) across New York via telepsychiatry, providing flexible access to comprehensive and personalized mental health care. My approach is integrative, individualized and unhurried. I specialize in ADHD, autism, anxiety, OCD, depression, mood and behavioral disorders. My practice is out-of-network and does not participate directly with insurance plans. I provide superbills that you may submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement, depending on your out-of-network benefits. to verify your coverage for out-of-network psychiatric services.
(516) 689-0327 View (516) 689-0327
Photo of Dr. Jacob Palathinkal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, NP
Dr. Jacob Palathinkal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, NP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression.
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression.
(516) 373-7896 View (516) 373-7896
Photo of Kimberly Walker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Kimberly Walker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Online Only
Kim is committed to making individuals feel heard and building strong therapeutic relationships with each client she treats. She has over 25 years of psychiatric and mental health experience at the University of Rochester. Her primary focus is providing compassionate and patient centered care.
Kim is committed to making individuals feel heard and building strong therapeutic relationships with each client she treats. She has over 25 years of psychiatric and mental health experience at the University of Rochester. Her primary focus is providing compassionate and patient centered care.
(332) 242-2390 View (332) 242-2390
Photo of Dr. Chenen Hsieh - Psycovery - Dr. Chenen Hsieh, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Psycovery - Dr. Chenen Hsieh, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry, with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and stress-related concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry, with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and stress-related concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.
(516) 216-9893 View (516) 216-9893
Photo of Ryan Mustacchio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Ryan Mustacchio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
You might be navigating life on your own for the first time—or making major decisions about your body, your future, or your identity. Maybe you're unsure what’s normal, or you feel pressure to keep everything together. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and longing for a space where they can exhale. Whether you're a college student figuring out adulthood or a woman facing the complexities of fertility, pregnancy, or loss, I offer care that meets you exactly where you are. Together, we’ll build insight, stability, and confidence—so you can move forward with clarity and strength.
You might be navigating life on your own for the first time—or making major decisions about your body, your future, or your identity. Maybe you're unsure what’s normal, or you feel pressure to keep everything together. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and longing for a space where they can exhale. Whether you're a college student figuring out adulthood or a woman facing the complexities of fertility, pregnancy, or loss, I offer care that meets you exactly where you are. Together, we’ll build insight, stability, and confidence—so you can move forward with clarity and strength.
(518) 919-3074 View (518) 919-3074
Photo of Marie C. Patton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Marie C. Patton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Self-care is important to the overall wellbeing and health of an individual. Seeking assistance in sorting out day-to-day issues that impact your ability to attain your goals is the first step in working toward them. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, worried and sometimes depressed? I understand. Have a child or teen who is afraid, overwhelmed, moody and sometimes irritable? I understand that also. We all have experiences that have shaped who we are today. You are important and you have a story to tell. I am here to listen to yours and to be of service to you.
Self-care is important to the overall wellbeing and health of an individual. Seeking assistance in sorting out day-to-day issues that impact your ability to attain your goals is the first step in working toward them. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, worried and sometimes depressed? I understand. Have a child or teen who is afraid, overwhelmed, moody and sometimes irritable? I understand that also. We all have experiences that have shaped who we are today. You are important and you have a story to tell. I am here to listen to yours and to be of service to you.
(631) 318-4996 View (631) 318-4996

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Reagan Anusionwu - Telepsychiatry: Rave Psychiatry, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW-R, LMSW, LMHC
Telepsychiatry: Rave Psychiatry, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSW-R, LMSW, LMHC
Malverne, NY 11565
At Rave Psychiatry, We offer exceptional and convenient care utilizing tele-psychiatry, tele-therapy and traditional in-office visits; thereby giving client’s the option to choose on which method to see a psychiatric provider. Our team of 10+ Psychiatric providers are experienced, licensed and nationally certified, professional mental health providers that pride on working with each client in order to provide team oriented and consistent care at all times. We serve clients from NY via a secure Telepsychiatry platform through a HIPPA compliant platform that is approved by American Telemedicine Association.
At Rave Psychiatry, We offer exceptional and convenient care utilizing tele-psychiatry, tele-therapy and traditional in-office visits; thereby giving client’s the option to choose on which method to see a psychiatric provider. Our team of 10+ Psychiatric providers are experienced, licensed and nationally certified, professional mental health providers that pride on working with each client in order to provide team oriented and consistent care at all times. We serve clients from NY via a secure Telepsychiatry platform through a HIPPA compliant platform that is approved by American Telemedicine Association.
(347) 835-5963 View (347) 835-5963
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10018
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
View
Photo of Dr. Elchin Gajiev, Psychiatrist, MD, DO
Dr. Elchin Gajiev
Psychiatrist, MD, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I'm Dr. Elchin Gajiev, and I'm honored to serve as your trusted psychiatrist. I have dedicated my career to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care to support individuals in achieving well-being and leading fulfilling lives. My clients typically aim to reduce the impact of their symptoms on daily life, strengthen their relationships, and achieve a greater sense of balance and meaning. They are looking for clear, compassionate guidance on how to manage their mental health, whether through medication, lifestyle adjustments, or coordinated care with other healthcare providers.
Hello, I'm Dr. Elchin Gajiev, and I'm honored to serve as your trusted psychiatrist. I have dedicated my career to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care to support individuals in achieving well-being and leading fulfilling lives. My clients typically aim to reduce the impact of their symptoms on daily life, strengthen their relationships, and achieve a greater sense of balance and meaning. They are looking for clear, compassionate guidance on how to manage their mental health, whether through medication, lifestyle adjustments, or coordinated care with other healthcare providers.
(929) 600-7204 View (929) 600-7204
Photo of Isak Rabiyev, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Isak Rabiyev
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently affiliated with Readywell Psychiatric. My most common clientele includes someone someone seeking support for managing anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, who is motivated to actively engage in their care. They may struggle with focus, emotional regulation, or managing stress, and are looking for guidance in developing healthy coping strategies and improving their overall well-being. Their goal is to find balance in their lives, achieve greater emotional stability, and gain tools that empower them to thrive both personally and professionally.
Currently affiliated with Readywell Psychiatric. My most common clientele includes someone someone seeking support for managing anxiety, ADHD, or mood disorders, who is motivated to actively engage in their care. They may struggle with focus, emotional regulation, or managing stress, and are looking for guidance in developing healthy coping strategies and improving their overall well-being. Their goal is to find balance in their lives, achieve greater emotional stability, and gain tools that empower them to thrive both personally and professionally.
(929) 600-6105 View (929) 600-6105

See more therapy options for Hicksville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hicksville, NY

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Hicksville, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
94% Depression
88% ADHD
81% Bipolar Disorder
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
63% Psychosis
63% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
83% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Hicksville, NY see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hicksville?

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.