Psychiatrists in Hopewell Junction, NY

Kathleen Fanning Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, NPP
Verified Verified
Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
Not accepting new clients
From our first meeting, we begin a relationship built upon kindness, empathy, trust and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address the important issues that are bringing you here. Through my years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have realized that mental health encompasses more than just words, it includes physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and deal with stressful situations, how we make choices, interact with others and find solutions. I would like the opportunity to work with you in discovering and treating the issues that are affecting you.
From our first meeting, we begin a relationship built upon kindness, empathy, trust and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address the important issues that are bringing you here. Through my years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have realized that mental health encompasses more than just words, it includes physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and deal with stressful situations, how we make choices, interact with others and find solutions. I would like the opportunity to work with you in discovering and treating the issues that are affecting you.

Suboxone Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
Welcome to Suboxone/Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury. Opioid/Heroin Addiction is a national epidemic and our mission is to provide outpatient Suboxone/Buprenorphine treatment for patients with opioid dependence in a discreet manner. We also have state of the art therapist and counselors. Dr Varinder Rathore MD (“DR V”) is Double Board Certified in Adult & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment). We are conveniently located a mile from Danbury Hospital at 72 North Street, Danbury, CT 06810. https://www.suboxonedoctorny.com/
Welcome to Suboxone/Buprenorphine Treatment of Danbury. Opioid/Heroin Addiction is a national epidemic and our mission is to provide outpatient Suboxone/Buprenorphine treatment for patients with opioid dependence in a discreet manner. We also have state of the art therapist and counselors. Dr Varinder Rathore MD (“DR V”) is Double Board Certified in Adult & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MAT(Medication Assisted Treatment). We are conveniently located a mile from Danbury Hospital at 72 North Street, Danbury, CT 06810. https://www.suboxonedoctorny.com/

"I am Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MICA (Mentally Ill-Chemical Abuse) patients. I was born and raised in the Hudson Valley and thus feel a distinct sense of pride practicing here. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at Albany Medical Center & Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Albert Einstein Medical Center where he was an Assistant Professor. I have years of experience in treating patients with a vast range of psychiatric conditions including Major Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Bipolar Disorder and ADD/ADHD.
"I am Double Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry & Addiction Psychiatry and an expert in MICA (Mentally Ill-Chemical Abuse) patients. I was born and raised in the Hudson Valley and thus feel a distinct sense of pride practicing here. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at Albany Medical Center & Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship at Albert Einstein Medical Center where he was an Assistant Professor. I have years of experience in treating patients with a vast range of psychiatric conditions including Major Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Bipolar Disorder and ADD/ADHD.

Opiate addiction effects 1.9 million Americans and has the potential to destroy individuals and families but their is help.. We offer evidence-based medication assisted treatments including buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv) for opioid dependence. We offer personalized one-on-one care for every patient to reclaim their lives. Varinder S. Rathore MD is Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry with 15+ years experience with opioid dependence treatment. As a former Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical he is one of the most skilled addiction physicians in the country. We can help you. Call us today.
Opiate addiction effects 1.9 million Americans and has the potential to destroy individuals and families but their is help.. We offer evidence-based medication assisted treatments including buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv) for opioid dependence. We offer personalized one-on-one care for every patient to reclaim their lives. Varinder S. Rathore MD is Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry with 15+ years experience with opioid dependence treatment. As a former Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical he is one of the most skilled addiction physicians in the country. We can help you. Call us today.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

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.

Perry Githens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beacon, NY 12508
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I also have the ability to manage difficult complex psychiatric cases.
I embrace a diverse practice that ranges from adolescents through older adults in all ages and areas. I enjoy helping people that have struggled to find a way to peace and happiness. Perry appreciates listening and learning about a person and building a therapeutic relationship. I work with people who have never taken medications that are new to psychiatric treatment and medication management. I also have the ability to manage difficult complex psychiatric cases.

Shauna Roach Psychiatric NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
One size does not fit all especially when it comes to your mental health, I am sure you will agree. You not only want expert care, but you want to feel as though your concerns are validated. You want to feel empowered to move to the next step with someone who is consistent and cares about you. I want to be your accountability partner on your journey to recovery. In addition to managing your medication management, I offer brief psychotherapy to support your medication management regimen. I want to also give you a prescription for lifestyle changes to improve your mental health.
One size does not fit all especially when it comes to your mental health, I am sure you will agree. You not only want expert care, but you want to feel as though your concerns are validated. You want to feel empowered to move to the next step with someone who is consistent and cares about you. I want to be your accountability partner on your journey to recovery. In addition to managing your medication management, I offer brief psychotherapy to support your medication management regimen. I want to also give you a prescription for lifestyle changes to improve your mental health.

Dr. Jarvis, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, considering the mind, body, and spirit. She values the patient as an active partner in their care, striving to empower them in managing their health journey. Dr. Jarvis offers comprehensive services, including psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and culturally sensitive care. Patients under her care feel genuinely supported, heard, and empowered, fostering hope for positive improvements in their situations.
Dr. Jarvis, a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner, emphasizes a holistic approach to mental health, considering the mind, body, and spirit. She values the patient as an active partner in their care, striving to empower them in managing their health journey. Dr. Jarvis offers comprehensive services, including psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management, psychoeducation, and culturally sensitive care. Patients under her care feel genuinely supported, heard, and empowered, fostering hope for positive improvements in their situations.

Iva Lesniak, DO, Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, BC
Verified Verified
Lagrangeville, NY 12540
Not accepting new clients
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.

For insurance use I am an in-network provider on Rula: www.rula.com/providers/NY/1164838348-casey-cuddy. You will find that I am interested in, respectful of, and responsive to your issues, struggles, and inquiries, and I will challenge you to solve problems, to heal, and to grow. We will strive to identify causes of, and strategies for addressing symptoms and problems—not just to take medications. You will learn about your diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options to inform your healthcare choices. Trauma-related issues and safe, optimized prescribing are the primary focuses, although some psychotherapy modalities are offered.
For insurance use I am an in-network provider on Rula: www.rula.com/providers/NY/1164838348-casey-cuddy. You will find that I am interested in, respectful of, and responsive to your issues, struggles, and inquiries, and I will challenge you to solve problems, to heal, and to grow. We will strive to identify causes of, and strategies for addressing symptoms and problems—not just to take medications. You will learn about your diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options to inform your healthcare choices. Trauma-related issues and safe, optimized prescribing are the primary focuses, although some psychotherapy modalities are offered.

Sometimes its hard being a person. Life can become overwhelming for all of us at times. I am a board certified psychiatric and family practice DNP, uniquely qualified in the whole person approach to healing. My extensive experience allows me to perform psychiatric evaluations, and to diagnose and provide treatments for most psychiatric and medical conditions. I treat anxiety, mood, ADHD, trauma autism and bipolar disorders in children, adolescents and adults. Ultimately my goal is to offer hope and to empower others to tap into their essential core of strength and goodness by promoting self awareness and self compassion.
Sometimes its hard being a person. Life can become overwhelming for all of us at times. I am a board certified psychiatric and family practice DNP, uniquely qualified in the whole person approach to healing. My extensive experience allows me to perform psychiatric evaluations, and to diagnose and provide treatments for most psychiatric and medical conditions. I treat anxiety, mood, ADHD, trauma autism and bipolar disorders in children, adolescents and adults. Ultimately my goal is to offer hope and to empower others to tap into their essential core of strength and goodness by promoting self awareness and self compassion.

Alexis N Haughton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with more than 11 years of psychiatric experience. I strive to provide safe access to mental health services across the lifespan and specialize in a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I am certified in medical Marijuana and Suboxone.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with more than 11 years of psychiatric experience. I strive to provide safe access to mental health services across the lifespan and specialize in a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I am certified in medical Marijuana and Suboxone.

Perry Githens has sound experience in substance abuse, long-term care settings, outpatient, and acute inpatient settings with pediatric and adult populations. He has experience in all different areas, such as residential substance abuse, alcohol use disorder, inpatient geriatric psychiatry with dementia, and mental illness in the elderly.
Perry Githens has sound experience in substance abuse, long-term care settings, outpatient, and acute inpatient settings with pediatric and adult populations. He has experience in all different areas, such as residential substance abuse, alcohol use disorder, inpatient geriatric psychiatry with dementia, and mental illness in the elderly.

With a decade-long experience in psychiatric medication management and a very personable style, Wendy will be your ally in your quest for balance and well-being. She specializes in anxiety, depression and substance use and is well versed in several treatment modalities. Wendy sees patients via TeleHealth only.
With a decade-long experience in psychiatric medication management and a very personable style, Wendy will be your ally in your quest for balance and well-being. She specializes in anxiety, depression and substance use and is well versed in several treatment modalities. Wendy sees patients via TeleHealth only.

Judi Siebold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
At Clearwave Psychiatry, our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
Jeanean Aming DNP, Family Health NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
I provide medication management for patients diagnosed with anxiety, depression, attention, deficit disorder, and bipolar disorder
I provide medication management for patients diagnosed with anxiety, depression, attention, deficit disorder, and bipolar disorder

Bridget Lennon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beacon, NY 12508
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, working predominantly with children/families and young adults in the Hudson Valley. I hold master's degrees from Drexel University and Columbia University. As both a social worker and a nurse, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including inpatient care, family systems/school-based, and outpatient services. The goal of medication treatment is to help reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and enhance your overall well-being. I strive to use the least amount of medication necessary to achieve your desired outcome.
I am a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner, working predominantly with children/families and young adults in the Hudson Valley. I hold master's degrees from Drexel University and Columbia University. As both a social worker and a nurse, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings including inpatient care, family systems/school-based, and outpatient services. The goal of medication treatment is to help reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and enhance your overall well-being. I strive to use the least amount of medication necessary to achieve your desired outcome.

I love to help people! I completed my residency from Northshore University Hospital Manhasset NY. integrated within the Northwell health system - I have been practicing psychiatry and seeding hope for more than 20 years in all settings for Pt population like in-patients , community health centers and ER .During these years my focus has been to listen empathically and treat them the best i can .i was awarded by pronounced Vitals as the most compassionate dr who treat their pts with utmost kindness - also top rated by U.S News Health. My passion and profession meets here.
I love to help people! I completed my residency from Northshore University Hospital Manhasset NY. integrated within the Northwell health system - I have been practicing psychiatry and seeding hope for more than 20 years in all settings for Pt population like in-patients , community health centers and ER .During these years my focus has been to listen empathically and treat them the best i can .i was awarded by pronounced Vitals as the most compassionate dr who treat their pts with utmost kindness - also top rated by U.S News Health. My passion and profession meets here.

Jonathan L. Kirsch
Psychiatrist, MD, RN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kingston, NY 12401
Not accepting new clients
I am a clinical psychiatrist with a private practice in Kingston, New York, where I enjoy working with a wide array of clients, and assisting with their mental health needs. Both personable and caring, I provide an individualized approach to treatment in a relaxed environment. My evaluation process is thorough and comprehensive, and my recommendations are based on the best, most current research and clinical evidence available. My approach to treatment relies heavily on a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Working together as a "team" we develop the best and most practical solutions to address their unique needs.
I am a clinical psychiatrist with a private practice in Kingston, New York, where I enjoy working with a wide array of clients, and assisting with their mental health needs. Both personable and caring, I provide an individualized approach to treatment in a relaxed environment. My evaluation process is thorough and comprehensive, and my recommendations are based on the best, most current research and clinical evidence available. My approach to treatment relies heavily on a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. Working together as a "team" we develop the best and most practical solutions to address their unique needs.

pw psych NP svcs pllc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my prfessional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
About the Provider: I am a Board Certified, Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). I obtained my prfessional degree from Walden University. Over the years, I had professional affiliations with reputable mental health facilities including Bakersfield behavior, John George psych and more. I treat children and adults affected by various mental illness with care and compassion. I utilize Evidence Based Practice model to make treatment choices. I am specialized in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety and mood instability. Stimulant and non stimulant treatment are available. I do conduct ADHD screening and testing before treatment.
See more therapy options for Hopewell Junction
Nearby Searches for Hopewell Junction
- Beacon
- Brewster
- Carmel
- Fishkill
- Lagrangeville
- Mahopac
- Millbrook
- New Windsor
- Newburgh
- Poughkeepsie
- Shrub Oak
- Wappingers Falls
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hopewell Junction, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hopewell Junction, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Medication Management |
75% | Depression |
75% | Anxiety |
75% | Addiction |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
25 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield |
How Psychiatrists in Hopewell Junction, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Male | |
25% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hopewell Junction?
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.