Psychiatrists in Levittown, NY

Photo of Simi Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Simi Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
2 Endorsed
Levittown, NY 11756
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 Shine George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shine George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Levittown, NY 11756
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 2yrs of experience in treating adults with various mental illness including but not limited to anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, depression, OCD, mood disorder and ADHD. I have completed my master's degree from Molloy College. I offer medication management via both telehealth and in person appointments.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with 2yrs of experience in treating adults with various mental illness including but not limited to anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia, depression, OCD, mood disorder and ADHD. I have completed my master's degree from Molloy College. I offer medication management via both telehealth and in person appointments.
(516) 973-1496 View (516) 973-1496
Photo of Nisha Pradeep, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Nisha Pradeep
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Levittown, NY 11756
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 yrs of experience in treating adults with various mental illness including but not limited to anxiety, panic disorder, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I have completed my masters degree from Stony Brook University and Doctorate degree from University at Buffalo. Every individual has unique needs and I use individually tailored treatment plans for my patients. Please use the website link, call or email to book an appointment.
I am a board certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 12 yrs of experience in treating adults with various mental illness including but not limited to anxiety, panic disorder, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I have completed my masters degree from Stony Brook University and Doctorate degree from University at Buffalo. Every individual has unique needs and I use individually tailored treatment plans for my patients. Please use the website link, call or email to book an appointment.
(516) 714-4556 View (516) 714-4556
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 Dr. Feby James Kanatt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Feby James Kanatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am an expert in providing mental health care to adults and the geriatric population. My approach is collaborative and focused on responding to the needs and priorities of individual clients. Common challenges my clients seek treatment include anxiety disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, mood disorder, sleep disturbances, and psychotic episodes. My practice model also includes psychotherapy techniques in addition to medication management.
As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I am an expert in providing mental health care to adults and the geriatric population. My approach is collaborative and focused on responding to the needs and priorities of individual clients. Common challenges my clients seek treatment include anxiety disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, mood disorder, sleep disturbances, and psychotic episodes. My practice model also includes psychotherapy techniques in addition to medication management.
(516) 973-0772 View (516) 973-0772
Photo of Sean Dellasperanzo - Equilibrio Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Equilibrio Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are a group of Nurse Practitioners specializing in Psychiatry. Areas of expertise include managing psychotropic medications, alongside brief psychotherapy targeting a wide array of mental health disorders. Joanne Hudkins is a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing mental health disorders related to Peripartum, (before, during and after pregnancy).
We are a group of Nurse Practitioners specializing in Psychiatry. Areas of expertise include managing psychotropic medications, alongside brief psychotherapy targeting a wide array of mental health disorders. Joanne Hudkins is a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing mental health disorders related to Peripartum, (before, during and after pregnancy).
(516) 614-3670 View (516) 614-3670
Photo of Dr. Tina Wu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Tina Wu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD through medication management and psychotherapy. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Internal Family System (IFS), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD through medication management and psychotherapy. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Internal Family System (IFS), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
(516) 957-2548 View (516) 957-2548
Photo of Dr. Anne Phan-Huy, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Phan-Huy
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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.
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Photo of Dr. Tina Wu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Tina Wu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am doctorally prepared, NYU-educated and ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in providing authentic and non-judgmental nursing care. My focuses are the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and insomnia.
I am doctorally prepared, NYU-educated and ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience in providing authentic and non-judgmental nursing care. My focuses are the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD and insomnia.
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More Psychiatrists Nearby

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 Dr. Quentin J Reynolds, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Quentin J Reynolds
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I provide trauma-informed psychiatric care with a strong focus on treatment planning for young adults navigating the demands of early adulthood. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, struggling with burnout, identity, or major life transition; I offer care that is both evidence-based and tailored to your needs. I offer telehealth appointments across New York State, with evening and weekend availability and scheduling flexibility to accommodate academic, professional, or personal demands. I accept some insurances and private pay.
I provide trauma-informed psychiatric care with a strong focus on treatment planning for young adults navigating the demands of early adulthood. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, struggling with burnout, identity, or major life transition; I offer care that is both evidence-based and tailored to your needs. I offer telehealth appointments across New York State, with evening and weekend availability and scheduling flexibility to accommodate academic, professional, or personal demands. I accept some insurances and private pay.
(332) 284-2828 View (332) 284-2828
Photo of Kathleen A Bowen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kathleen A Bowen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
South Setauket, NY 11720
I am a board certified family psychiatric /mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with prescriptive privileges. I graduated from Adelphi University, cum laude, with a BSN and earned my MS, NP from Stony Brook University, where I was awarded distinction for Overall Excellence in Psychiatric/Mental Health and inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society.
I am a board certified family psychiatric /mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with prescriptive privileges. I graduated from Adelphi University, cum laude, with a BSN and earned my MS, NP from Stony Brook University, where I was awarded distinction for Overall Excellence in Psychiatric/Mental Health and inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society.
(631) 203-1464 View (631) 203-1464
Photo of Aderonke Ayodele Oguntoye, Psychiatrist, MD
Aderonke Ayodele Oguntoye
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am an ivy league trained psychiatrist who is double board certified in adult and forensic psychiatry. I provide psychotherapy (talk therapy) and/or psychopharmacology (medication) to high functioning adults. Conditions treated in this practice include but are not limited to mood disorders, adjustment disorders, anxiety disorders, stage of life transitions, interpersonal/relationship difficulties as well as issues around trauma, grief and loss. This is not an exhaustive list of services. Please contact me directly to discuss your case and if this practice is right for you.
I am an ivy league trained psychiatrist who is double board certified in adult and forensic psychiatry. I provide psychotherapy (talk therapy) and/or psychopharmacology (medication) to high functioning adults. Conditions treated in this practice include but are not limited to mood disorders, adjustment disorders, anxiety disorders, stage of life transitions, interpersonal/relationship difficulties as well as issues around trauma, grief and loss. This is not an exhaustive list of services. Please contact me directly to discuss your case and if this practice is right for you.
(646) 461-3611 View (646) 461-3611
Photo of Janelle Hutchings, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Janelle Hutchings
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I offer empathetic mental health care to clients ages 18 to 65 specializing in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I treat a range of other diagnoses, including ADHD, maladaptive coping skills, grief, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), relationship issues, sleep disorders, and women's issues. I believe that your experience is unique. My approach emphasizes collaboration, ensuring you are integral participants in your care. I employ individual, cognitive, and behavioral therapy to help you achieve lasting improvements in your mental health and well-being.
I offer empathetic mental health care to clients ages 18 to 65 specializing in anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I treat a range of other diagnoses, including ADHD, maladaptive coping skills, grief, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), relationship issues, sleep disorders, and women's issues. I believe that your experience is unique. My approach emphasizes collaboration, ensuring you are integral participants in your care. I employ individual, cognitive, and behavioral therapy to help you achieve lasting improvements in your mental health and well-being.
(929) 528-5518 View (929) 528-5518
Photo of Myea Meighan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
Myea Meighan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN
New York, NY 10011
Ms. Myea Meighan, an accomplished adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner at Orenda Psychiatry, offers virtual consultations in New York State. Ms. Meighan holds a master's degree in nursing from the State University of New York, Stony Brook. Providing her services to individuals dealing with anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and various other mental health problems, she employs a holistic approach to foster emotional well-being. Ms. Meighan's commitment to offering comprehensive virtual care ensures accessibility, allowing people to navigate their mental health journeys with her expertise.
Ms. Myea Meighan, an accomplished adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner at Orenda Psychiatry, offers virtual consultations in New York State. Ms. Meighan holds a master's degree in nursing from the State University of New York, Stony Brook. Providing her services to individuals dealing with anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and various other mental health problems, she employs a holistic approach to foster emotional well-being. Ms. Meighan's commitment to offering comprehensive virtual care ensures accessibility, allowing people to navigate their mental health journeys with her expertise.
(332) 237-2135 View (332) 237-2135
Photo of Adam Jimoh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Adam Jimoh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in addiction treatment and mental health care. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use challenges by providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment tailored to their unique needs. My goal is to support you on your journey toward recovery and improved well-being. My approach to care is patient-centered, compassionate, and evidence-based. I believe in building a trusting relationship where individuals feel heard and supported in their recovery journey.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in addiction treatment and mental health care. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use challenges by providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment tailored to their unique needs. My goal is to support you on your journey toward recovery and improved well-being. My approach to care is patient-centered, compassionate, and evidence-based. I believe in building a trusting relationship where individuals feel heard and supported in their recovery journey.
(914) 342-7931 View (914) 342-7931
Photo of Dr. Brenda Kibola - Brada Clinic, Psychiatrist, MD
Brada Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101
Do you feel like you're constantly struggling to keep up, juggling the demands of work, home, and personal life, yet never quite catching up? Are you overwhelmed by the relentless pace, feeling lost in a sea of responsibilities that seems to grow by the day? It's a shared experience for many, where the pressure to perform perfectly in every aspect of life leads to deep-seated anxiety and a loss of one's sense of self. Ignoring these feelings can lead to a downward spiral of stress and emotional exhaustion. Remember, you're not alone in this struggle. It's crucial to acknowledge these challenges to find a path to peace and balance.
Do you feel like you're constantly struggling to keep up, juggling the demands of work, home, and personal life, yet never quite catching up? Are you overwhelmed by the relentless pace, feeling lost in a sea of responsibilities that seems to grow by the day? It's a shared experience for many, where the pressure to perform perfectly in every aspect of life leads to deep-seated anxiety and a loss of one's sense of self. Ignoring these feelings can lead to a downward spiral of stress and emotional exhaustion. Remember, you're not alone in this struggle. It's crucial to acknowledge these challenges to find a path to peace and balance.
(715) 317-5466 View (715) 317-5466
Photo of Dr. Mark Simonds, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Simonds
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Dr. Mark Simonds is a Board-Certified general psychiatrist with training and certification in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He has been practicing general psychiatry for about 25 years. His practice focuses on initial assessment of psychiatric conditions, treatment planning, and psychotropic medication management, typically with a one-hour initial intake and 30-minute follow-up visits. Collaboration with a psychotherapist for the best treatment outcome is welcome and encouraged
Dr. Mark Simonds is a Board-Certified general psychiatrist with training and certification in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. He has been practicing general psychiatry for about 25 years. His practice focuses on initial assessment of psychiatric conditions, treatment planning, and psychotropic medication management, typically with a one-hour initial intake and 30-minute follow-up visits. Collaboration with a psychotherapist for the best treatment outcome is welcome and encouraged
(332) 331-7166 View (332) 331-7166
Photo of Dr. Christopher Hoffman, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Christopher Hoffman
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Christopher Hoffman is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist with three years experience. Dr. Hoffman provides patient-centered treatment using medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Typically, medication management appointments are 30 mins, and therapy appointments are 45 minutes. Psychotherapy slots with Dr. Hoffman are limited, so he often brings another therapist to the treatment team.
Dr. Christopher Hoffman is an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology certified psychiatrist with three years experience. Dr. Hoffman provides patient-centered treatment using medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Typically, medication management appointments are 30 mins, and therapy appointments are 45 minutes. Psychotherapy slots with Dr. Hoffman are limited, so he often brings another therapist to the treatment team.
(202) 953-6764 View (202) 953-6764
Photo of Michael Hawthorne, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael Hawthorne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10013
I'm Michael Hawthorne, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health care. My mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic techniques with medication management when appropriate. My practice is centered around building strong, trusting relationships with my clients, and I strive to empower them to take an active role in their own mental health journey.
I'm Michael Hawthorne, a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in mental health care. My mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, integrating evidence-based therapeutic techniques with medication management when appropriate. My practice is centered around building strong, trusting relationships with my clients, and I strive to empower them to take an active role in their own mental health journey.
(646) 718-4744 View (646) 718-4744

See more therapy options for Levittown

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Levittown, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Levittown, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
89% Depression
89% Trauma and PTSD
89% Sleep or Insomnia
89% Medication Management
78% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% Oxford

How Psychiatrists in Levittown, NY see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Levittown?

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.