Psychiatrists in Kings County, NY

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Photo of Toba Omidiji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Toba Omidiji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P, M, H, N
Online Only
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
(718) 831-6668 View (718) 831-6668
Photo of Susan Yeung, Psychiatrist, MD
Susan Yeung
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Susan Yeung is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult mental health. She currently also serves as the Medical Director of Maimonides Health Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinic. In her private practice, Dr. Yeung takes a holistic and individualized approach to care with thoughtful medication management and support to address a wide range of psychiatric conditions and behavioral challenges. She is dedicated to compassionate, evidence-based care. She specializes in treating a wide range of mental health conditions across all ages. Please note: Dr. Yeung does not take insurance
Dr. Susan Yeung is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult mental health. She currently also serves as the Medical Director of Maimonides Health Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinic. In her private practice, Dr. Yeung takes a holistic and individualized approach to care with thoughtful medication management and support to address a wide range of psychiatric conditions and behavioral challenges. She is dedicated to compassionate, evidence-based care. She specializes in treating a wide range of mental health conditions across all ages. Please note: Dr. Yeung does not take insurance
(646) 718-5902 View (646) 718-5902
Photo of Kathleen Fentress Tripp, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP-B, PNP
Kathleen Fentress Tripp
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP-B, PNP
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Supporting you in your health and recovery are my top priorities and I look forward to working with you closely to address your needs or the needs of your child. I am a Yale-educated, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of experience. I am a specialist in integrative psychopharmacology and I work with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I am a psychotherapist using CBT and DBT approaches to address mood, anxiety, relationship, and other concerns. My goal is to listen to you deeply and to understand your experience so that I can be of greatest help.
Supporting you in your health and recovery are my top priorities and I look forward to working with you closely to address your needs or the needs of your child. I am a Yale-educated, board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of experience. I am a specialist in integrative psychopharmacology and I work with children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, I am a psychotherapist using CBT and DBT approaches to address mood, anxiety, relationship, and other concerns. My goal is to listen to you deeply and to understand your experience so that I can be of greatest help.
(646) 490-1747 View (646) 490-1747
Photo of Kevin Chou, Psychiatrist, MD
Kevin Chou
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Life's hard. You feel judged by others, and you might even be judging yourself (even harshly). Everything, even our own history, makes us feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, or ashamed. What kind of world is this? Why are all these things happening to us?!
Life's hard. You feel judged by others, and you might even be judging yourself (even harshly). Everything, even our own history, makes us feel overwhelmed, embarrassed, or ashamed. What kind of world is this? Why are all these things happening to us?!
(646) 779-5595 View (646) 779-5595
Photo of Joseph Mouallem, Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Joseph Mouallem
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Dr. Mouallem is a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist specialized in evaluating and treating individuals with a wide range of issues, including depression and anxiety, relationship and career concerns, self-esteem problems, grief and loss. He has a special interest and focus in issues of early adulthood, reproductive psychiatry, and life transitions. After an extensive evaluation, you will work together to establish a plan of care that may include talk therapy, medication, or both when indicated. He has a warm and open-minded approach to care that is challenging and collaborative, thoughtful and thorough.
Dr. Mouallem is a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist specialized in evaluating and treating individuals with a wide range of issues, including depression and anxiety, relationship and career concerns, self-esteem problems, grief and loss. He has a special interest and focus in issues of early adulthood, reproductive psychiatry, and life transitions. After an extensive evaluation, you will work together to establish a plan of care that may include talk therapy, medication, or both when indicated. He has a warm and open-minded approach to care that is challenging and collaborative, thoughtful and thorough.
(646) 969-3519 View (646) 969-3519
Photo of Arielle Nicole Siniapkin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Arielle Nicole Siniapkin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in both medication management and psychotherapy, offering a holistic approach to mental health care. My focus is on collaboration and support, working closely with you to understand your unique needs and goals. I have experience working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns. Together, we'll explore your patterns of thinking and behavior, identify what may be holding you back, and work toward making meaningful changes. My aim is to empower you to gain deeper self-awareness, build on your strengths, and cultivate the skills and
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in both medication management and psychotherapy, offering a holistic approach to mental health care. My focus is on collaboration and support, working closely with you to understand your unique needs and goals. I have experience working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns. Together, we'll explore your patterns of thinking and behavior, identify what may be holding you back, and work toward making meaningful changes. My aim is to empower you to gain deeper self-awareness, build on your strengths, and cultivate the skills and
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Photo of Ali Aziz, Psychiatrist, MD
Ali Aziz
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11242
As a psychiatrist, Dr. Ali Aziz treats a range of mental health conditions and is keen to help the wider community get the care they deserve. He practices at Good Health Psychiatric Services, P.C., in Brooklyn, NY.
As a psychiatrist, Dr. Ali Aziz treats a range of mental health conditions and is keen to help the wider community get the care they deserve. He practices at Good Health Psychiatric Services, P.C., in Brooklyn, NY.
(929) 298-9740 View (929) 298-9740
Photo of Jannet Harkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Jannet Harkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Online Only
Psychiatry has always been a passion for me, PMHNP. With five years of experience in Emergency Psychiatry, Inpatient and Outpatient Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Chemical Dependency, she brings a diverse skill set and dedication to collaborative care to Rula. I believe in partnering with patients to achieve their health goals. As Noam Shpancer, PhD, aptly stated, “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” Together, embark on a journey towards mental well-being, one step at a time.
Psychiatry has always been a passion for me, PMHNP. With five years of experience in Emergency Psychiatry, Inpatient and Outpatient Adult and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Chemical Dependency, she brings a diverse skill set and dedication to collaborative care to Rula. I believe in partnering with patients to achieve their health goals. As Noam Shpancer, PhD, aptly stated, “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” Together, embark on a journey towards mental well-being, one step at a time.
(914) 601-3925 View (914) 601-3925
Photo of Sasha Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Sasha Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Accepting new clients. Helping women find calm, clarity, and emotional balance—through every life transition. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep passion for supporting women through every stage of their mental health journey. My background includes advanced training in psychiatry and women's mental health, with a particular focus on perinatal mental health, infertility-related stress, hormonal mood disorders, and anxiety in high-achieving women.
Accepting new clients. Helping women find calm, clarity, and emotional balance—through every life transition. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a deep passion for supporting women through every stage of their mental health journey. My background includes advanced training in psychiatry and women's mental health, with a particular focus on perinatal mental health, infertility-related stress, hormonal mood disorders, and anxiety in high-achieving women.
(332) 242-4723 View (332) 242-4723
Photo of Sean Guinnane, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sean Guinnane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I’ve been working in psychiatric care for almost a decade, helping people manage anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. My goal is to make this process feel as normal and comfortable as possible—no judgment, no pressure, just support.
I’ve been working in psychiatric care for almost a decade, helping people manage anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. My goal is to make this process feel as normal and comfortable as possible—no judgment, no pressure, just support.
(347) 252-6569 View (347) 252-6569
Photo of Fadekemi Olude, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Fadekemi Olude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN
Online Only
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Offerring comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder
Currently accepting patients with appointments within A WEEK, with flexible scheduling. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief, ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you. Offerring comprehensive evaluations, diagnosis and med management for conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder
(347) 846-0544 View (347) 846-0544
Photo of Christelle Dubic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Christelle Dubic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Christelle Dubic is an experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating children and adults with various mental health conditions. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions. She provides quality mental healthcare to people of diverse backgrounds. After each session, her patients will walk away feeling heard and valued.
Christelle Dubic is an experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating children and adults with various mental health conditions. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions. She provides quality mental healthcare to people of diverse backgrounds. After each session, her patients will walk away feeling heard and valued.
(347) 580-5435 View (347) 580-5435
Photo of Mahmoud Yazied Dweik, Psychiatrist, MD
Mahmoud Yazied Dweik
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Dweik is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults, children, and adolescents. He has almost a decade of experience treating patients and believes that medication is just one tool to achieving mental wellness. He has several appointments, including academic with Weill Cornell.
Dr. Dweik is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of adults, children, and adolescents. He has almost a decade of experience treating patients and believes that medication is just one tool to achieving mental wellness. He has several appointments, including academic with Weill Cornell.
(646) 201-5791 View (646) 201-5791
Photo of Levi Welton, Physician Assistant, PA-C, MEd
Levi Welton
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MEd
Online Only
As a Psychiatry Physician Assistant specializing in telehealth, I provide compassionate care to individuals, particularly focusing on anxiety and depression. My evidence-based approach emphasizes medication management tailored to each patient's needs, complemented by collaborative support from therapists and other healthcare professionals. With extensive experience treating patients over 12 years old, I understand the nuances of adolescent and adult mental health. As an observant Jew, I am familiar with the Jewish lifestyle, ensuring a culturally sensitive approach to care while welcoming individuals of all backgrounds and faiths.
As a Psychiatry Physician Assistant specializing in telehealth, I provide compassionate care to individuals, particularly focusing on anxiety and depression. My evidence-based approach emphasizes medication management tailored to each patient's needs, complemented by collaborative support from therapists and other healthcare professionals. With extensive experience treating patients over 12 years old, I understand the nuances of adolescent and adult mental health. As an observant Jew, I am familiar with the Jewish lifestyle, ensuring a culturally sensitive approach to care while welcoming individuals of all backgrounds and faiths.
(929) 348-2763 x3002 View (929) 348-2763 x3002
Photo of Nahil Chohan, Psychiatrist, MD
Nahil Chohan
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Did life take an unexpected turn? Are you feeling frustrated or having difficulty with relationships, work, or school? Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or unhappiness? We have all gone through uncertainties in our lives. You are not alone. Come and let’s talk about anything on your mind. I will take the time to listen. We will explore your life-present and past. We will understand your core self. I will help you embrace your unique identity.
Did life take an unexpected turn? Are you feeling frustrated or having difficulty with relationships, work, or school? Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or unhappiness? We have all gone through uncertainties in our lives. You are not alone. Come and let’s talk about anything on your mind. I will take the time to listen. We will explore your life-present and past. We will understand your core self. I will help you embrace your unique identity.
(929) 930-4714 View (929) 930-4714
Photo of Dr. Louise Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Dr. Louise Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, - BC
Online Only
Dr. Thompson utilizes an evidenced-based holistic approach balancing psychotherapy with a conservative and efficient medication management approach. Because every patient is unique, treatment is individualized and patient centered. I believe in listening to patients in a non-judgmental, respectful, compassionate, and empathetic atmosphere as the first step to a therapeutic alliance for overcoming personal obstacles for a more fulfilling quality of life.
Dr. Thompson utilizes an evidenced-based holistic approach balancing psychotherapy with a conservative and efficient medication management approach. Because every patient is unique, treatment is individualized and patient centered. I believe in listening to patients in a non-judgmental, respectful, compassionate, and empathetic atmosphere as the first step to a therapeutic alliance for overcoming personal obstacles for a more fulfilling quality of life.
(844) 635-2193 View (844) 635-2193
Photo of Kari Groff - Park Slope Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Park Slope Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
(646) 455-3324 View (646) 455-3324
Photo of Kelli Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kelli Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health emphasizing care of the mind and body. As a provider who is board certified in psychiatric mental health and primary care, I am equipped to partner with my clients to meet their psychological and medical needs with an open mind. I recognize the profound impact that mental health has on physical health, as well as the physical health impact on mental health. I partner with clients using psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based pharmacology. In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.
I take a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health emphasizing care of the mind and body. As a provider who is board certified in psychiatric mental health and primary care, I am equipped to partner with my clients to meet their psychological and medical needs with an open mind. I recognize the profound impact that mental health has on physical health, as well as the physical health impact on mental health. I partner with clients using psychodynamic therapy and evidence-based pharmacology. In my spare time, I enjoy the outdoors, running and biking, reading, cooking, and spending time with my dog.
(347) 707-7735 View (347) 707-7735
Photo of Tashai Surgeon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tashai Surgeon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you seeking a compassionate and supportive environment to help you navigate life’s challenges, achieve your goals and improve your mental wellbeing ? I am dedicated to providing exactly that. I offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you receive the care and attention you deserve. As a certified Gestalt psychotherapist, I specialize in fostering self-awareness and self-understanding. This approach helps individuals overcome personal barriers and reach their full potential. With my extensive knowledge and training, I can guide you towards greater emotional and mental balance
Are you seeking a compassionate and supportive environment to help you navigate life’s challenges, achieve your goals and improve your mental wellbeing ? I am dedicated to providing exactly that. I offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you receive the care and attention you deserve. As a certified Gestalt psychotherapist, I specialize in fostering self-awareness and self-understanding. This approach helps individuals overcome personal barriers and reach their full potential. With my extensive knowledge and training, I can guide you towards greater emotional and mental balance
(347) 252-8116 View (347) 252-8116
Photo of Ruth Emily Geller, Psychiatrist, MD
Ruth Emily Geller
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11217
As a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I treat individuals of all ages, with both medication and psychotherapy, as appropriate. Whether you are seeking care for yourself or your child, it is important that you feel confidence and trust in me if I'm to be of help. I strongly believe (and research shows!) that the most important factor in successful outcomes is the therapeutic relationship. I encourage you to ask questions, trust your gut, and take time to determine if you feel comfortable. I appreciate that speaking with a psychiatrist may not be easy and takes courage.
As a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I treat individuals of all ages, with both medication and psychotherapy, as appropriate. Whether you are seeking care for yourself or your child, it is important that you feel confidence and trust in me if I'm to be of help. I strongly believe (and research shows!) that the most important factor in successful outcomes is the therapeutic relationship. I encourage you to ask questions, trust your gut, and take time to determine if you feel comfortable. I appreciate that speaking with a psychiatrist may not be easy and takes courage.
(347) 673-0386 View (347) 673-0386
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See more therapy options for Kings County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Kings County, NY

700+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Kings County, NY who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
80% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Kings County, NY see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
32% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Kings County?

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.