Psychiatrists in Manhasset, NY

Photo of Scott Krakower, Psychiatrist, DO
Scott Krakower
Psychiatrist, DO
Manhasset, NY 11030
Dr. Krakower is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and formerly served as Unit Chief of Psychiatry at Northwell Health / Zucker Hillside Hospital. He is internationally recognized for his work with patients suffering from trauma, anxiety, video gaming, head injuries, coronavirus recovery, and addiction. He has provided expert opinion for hundreds of studies worldwide. He is recognized as a top physician by SuperDoctors and was a group recipient of the the Catchers in the Rye Humanitarian Award.
Dr. Krakower is an Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and formerly served as Unit Chief of Psychiatry at Northwell Health / Zucker Hillside Hospital. He is internationally recognized for his work with patients suffering from trauma, anxiety, video gaming, head injuries, coronavirus recovery, and addiction. He has provided expert opinion for hundreds of studies worldwide. He is recognized as a top physician by SuperDoctors and was a group recipient of the the Catchers in the Rye Humanitarian Award.
(347) 695-3075 View (347) 695-3075
Photo of Dr. Emma Jane Laskin - Emma Laskin MD PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Emma Laskin MD PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
I am a warm and energetic Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist who uses a more interactive approach to treatment. I provide Psychotherapy-Oriented Medication Management and Supportive/Insight-Oriented Psychotherapy, integrating positive psychology and breathing techniques as needed. I offer 45-min sessions to all patients to meet their evolving needs. I also work closely with other medical and/or mental health practitioners caring for my patients. Goals for treatment are made in conjunction with my patients and their parents because having a meaningful understanding of treatment goals and processes leads to better outcomes.
I am a warm and energetic Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist who uses a more interactive approach to treatment. I provide Psychotherapy-Oriented Medication Management and Supportive/Insight-Oriented Psychotherapy, integrating positive psychology and breathing techniques as needed. I offer 45-min sessions to all patients to meet their evolving needs. I also work closely with other medical and/or mental health practitioners caring for my patients. Goals for treatment are made in conjunction with my patients and their parents because having a meaningful understanding of treatment goals and processes leads to better outcomes.
(516) 980-4795 View (516) 980-4795
Photo of Hong Kim - One Mind Psychiatry NP PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P
One Mind Psychiatry NP PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of Mara Weinberg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mara Weinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can often feel overwhelming, with the constant demands of work, family, and personal health pulling you in multiple directions. If you find yourself feeling stressed, anxious, or down, know that you're not alone. The unpredictability of life can leave us all feeling off balance at times. If you're struggling to find your footing and improve your well-being, I'm here to help. I prioritize a client-centered approach, ensuring that each individual's unique experiences and needs are central to our collaborative work.
Life can often feel overwhelming, with the constant demands of work, family, and personal health pulling you in multiple directions. If you find yourself feeling stressed, anxious, or down, know that you're not alone. The unpredictability of life can leave us all feeling off balance at times. If you're struggling to find your footing and improve your well-being, I'm here to help. I prioritize a client-centered approach, ensuring that each individual's unique experiences and needs are central to our collaborative work.
(516) 981-4775 View (516) 981-4775
Photo of Thomas Yang, Psychiatrist, Thomas Yang, MD
Thomas Yang
Psychiatrist, Thomas Yang, MD
2 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
Do you or a loved one struggle to be efficient at work or school? Despite being highly creative and intelligent? Or perhaps able to perform at the same time feeling strained, drained and unnatural. There are several treatable conditions that can interfere with ones ability to function consistently. My additional training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry allow me to team up with adults, teenagers and children to discover ways to make life less difficult.
Do you or a loved one struggle to be efficient at work or school? Despite being highly creative and intelligent? Or perhaps able to perform at the same time feeling strained, drained and unnatural. There are several treatable conditions that can interfere with ones ability to function consistently. My additional training in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry allow me to team up with adults, teenagers and children to discover ways to make life less difficult.
(516) 928-6355 View (516) 928-6355
Photo of Valerie Thertus - Behavioral Psychiatry , Psychiatrist, MD
Behavioral Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Manhasset, NY 11030
Dr. Thertus completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, followed by residency and fellowship in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. She has broad experience treating a variety of psychiatric conditions, patients from diverse backgrounds and is double board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. She emphasizes shared decision making , encouraging personal input in goal setting and the recovery process.
Dr. Thertus completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, followed by residency and fellowship in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. She has broad experience treating a variety of psychiatric conditions, patients from diverse backgrounds and is double board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. She emphasizes shared decision making , encouraging personal input in goal setting and the recovery process.
(516) 586-0861 View (516) 586-0861
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(516) 407-8745 View (516) 407-8745
Photo of Arusha Farahani MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Arusha Farahani MD
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Everyone deserves the chance to have a mind that is calm, clear and content. As a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist I treat an array of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. While I specialize in medication management I consider the individual as a whole and provide comprehensive treatment plans that include non-medication strategies to help you live your best life. I encourage a collaborative approach and want patients to be active in treatment planning and decision-making. [I do not accept insurance but I am happy to provide invoices for you to submit for out-of-network benefits.]
Everyone deserves the chance to have a mind that is calm, clear and content. As a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist I treat an array of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. While I specialize in medication management I consider the individual as a whole and provide comprehensive treatment plans that include non-medication strategies to help you live your best life. I encourage a collaborative approach and want patients to be active in treatment planning and decision-making. [I do not accept insurance but I am happy to provide invoices for you to submit for out-of-network benefits.]
(516) 203-4187 View (516) 203-4187
Photo of Dr. Jacob Palathinkal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, NP
Dr. Jacob Palathinkal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, NP
Serves Area
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression.
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression.
(516) 373-7896 View (516) 373-7896
Photo of Anetta Raysin, Psychiatrist, DO
Anetta Raysin
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Like a ray of light, your journey toward mental well-being has a clear starting point, but its path is limitless. As an integrative, board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to guiding you from your starting place toward a future filled with endless possibilities and lasting mental health.
Like a ray of light, your journey toward mental well-being has a clear starting point, but its path is limitless. As an integrative, board-certified psychiatrist, I am committed to guiding you from your starting place toward a future filled with endless possibilities and lasting mental health.
(929) 640-1342 View (929) 640-1342
Photo of Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, AGNP-C, CDCES
Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP, AGNP-C, CDCES
Online Only
Roxanne Singer is a doctorate prepared, triple Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are interrupted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Many of her clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, grief, and loneliness.
Roxanne Singer is a doctorate prepared, triple Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are interrupted by anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, schizophrenia, and OCD. Many of her clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, emotions like anger, frustration, sadness, grief, and loneliness.
(332) 244-9796 View (332) 244-9796
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(516) 461-4455 View (516) 461-4455
Photo of Irene Tetzlaff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Irene Tetzlaff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Serves Area
Irene Tetzlaff is a skilled and compassionate clinician. She specializes in psychotherapeutic methods and medication management for adults, seniors, children and adolescents. Irene utilizes a holistic approach to wellness, treating her clients as individuals and not simply a list of symptoms to be treated. She employs modern telepsychiatry platforms for her client visits. Irene has served patients in both Pennsylvania and New York. Her patients have uniformly provided glowing reviews of her care. They feel she demonstrates true compassion and empathy.
Irene Tetzlaff is a skilled and compassionate clinician. She specializes in psychotherapeutic methods and medication management for adults, seniors, children and adolescents. Irene utilizes a holistic approach to wellness, treating her clients as individuals and not simply a list of symptoms to be treated. She employs modern telepsychiatry platforms for her client visits. Irene has served patients in both Pennsylvania and New York. Her patients have uniformly provided glowing reviews of her care. They feel she demonstrates true compassion and empathy.
(646) 849-7058 View (646) 849-7058
Photo of Michael Arena, Psychiatrist, DO, CGP, FAPA
Michael Arena
Psychiatrist, DO, CGP, FAPA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a Certified Group Psychotherapist. I provide individual, group, family, and/or couple's therapy along with medication management when it is needed. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety/stress, feelings of emptiness, relationship problems, self-hatred/sabotage, oppressive perfectionism, indecisiveness, or a general unhappiness with life, I can assist you in managing and overcoming these difficulties.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a Certified Group Psychotherapist. I provide individual, group, family, and/or couple's therapy along with medication management when it is needed. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety/stress, feelings of emptiness, relationship problems, self-hatred/sabotage, oppressive perfectionism, indecisiveness, or a general unhappiness with life, I can assist you in managing and overcoming these difficulties.
(516) 730-9717 View (516) 730-9717
Photo of Kayanna Jonas - Jonas Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Jonas Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Dr. Kayanna Jonas DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, specializes in treating adolescents, adults and the geriatric population who are having difficulties with behavioral, emotional, and mood challenges. Our practice initiates treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative approach. Treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
Dr. Kayanna Jonas DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, specializes in treating adolescents, adults and the geriatric population who are having difficulties with behavioral, emotional, and mood challenges. Our practice initiates treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative approach. Treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
(516) 980-5638 View (516) 980-5638
Photo of Ali Khan, Psychiatrist, MD
Ali Khan
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Assistant Professor in Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Inpatient Medical Director at Bellevue Hospital/NYU and Per-diem ER psychiatrist at Cohen's Children Hospital. My professional background involves working in inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and community treatment, catering to individuals across all age groups. Beyond clinical practice, I have actively engaged with national medical organizations and contributed to initiatives supporting both physicians and patients. I have published widely in the form of case reports, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis.
I am a Clinical Assistant Professor in Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Inpatient Medical Director at Bellevue Hospital/NYU and Per-diem ER psychiatrist at Cohen's Children Hospital. My professional background involves working in inpatient, outpatient, emergency, and community treatment, catering to individuals across all age groups. Beyond clinical practice, I have actively engaged with national medical organizations and contributed to initiatives supporting both physicians and patients. I have published widely in the form of case reports, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis.
(516) 914-8344 View (516) 914-8344
Photo of Dr. Judia Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Judia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand that the journey to mental wellness can be complex and deeply personal. My ideal clients are individuals who are seeking a compassionate partner to help them navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They desire a safe space where they can express their struggles and aspirations without judgment. My goal is to provide this sanctuary, guiding you towards greater self-awareness and emotional resilience.
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I understand that the journey to mental wellness can be complex and deeply personal. My ideal clients are individuals who are seeking a compassionate partner to help them navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. They desire a safe space where they can express their struggles and aspirations without judgment. My goal is to provide this sanctuary, guiding you towards greater self-awareness and emotional resilience.
(516) 613-3995 View (516) 613-3995
Photo of Shahnaz Malekan, Psychiatrist, MD
Shahnaz Malekan
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a highly compassionate child, adolescent, psychoanalyst and adult psychiatrist. I speak several languages including Farsi and Hebrew, have had the pleasure of working with patients of all ages from various cultures. I am psychoanalytically trained to provide play therapy/talk therapy to children and adolescents. In recognition of my professional excellence throughout the years, I have earned several awards, including Certificate of Honor in Recognition of Outstanding Achievement In Human Relations and Communication at UCLA, numerous Patients' Choice Awards and Compassionate Doctor Awards. I look forward to working with you.
I am a highly compassionate child, adolescent, psychoanalyst and adult psychiatrist. I speak several languages including Farsi and Hebrew, have had the pleasure of working with patients of all ages from various cultures. I am psychoanalytically trained to provide play therapy/talk therapy to children and adolescents. In recognition of my professional excellence throughout the years, I have earned several awards, including Certificate of Honor in Recognition of Outstanding Achievement In Human Relations and Communication at UCLA, numerous Patients' Choice Awards and Compassionate Doctor Awards. I look forward to working with you.
(516) 252-3176 View (516) 252-3176
Photo of Melissa Ruiz - Renewal Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Renewal Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m Melissa Ruiz, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of healthcare experience. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? Life can feel heavy at times, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I provide compassionate, judgment-free psychiatric care to help you find balance and clarity. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or stress, I create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m Melissa Ruiz, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of healthcare experience. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? Life can feel heavy at times, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I provide compassionate, judgment-free psychiatric care to help you find balance and clarity. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or stress, I create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
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Photo of Dr. Kousanee Chheda, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kousanee Chheda
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I know that life can be challenging, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I’m a board-certified, Mount Sinai-trained adult psychiatrist, and my passion is helping individuals like you achieve optimal mental well-being. In our work together, I combine therapy and medication, when needed, with practical lifestyle changes—like improving sleep, nutrition, and mindfulness—to help you create a balanced, healthy life. I believe that everyone’s journey is unique, so I’m dedicated to crafting a personalized treatment plan that fits your specific needs and goals.
I know that life can be challenging, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. I’m a board-certified, Mount Sinai-trained adult psychiatrist, and my passion is helping individuals like you achieve optimal mental well-being. In our work together, I combine therapy and medication, when needed, with practical lifestyle changes—like improving sleep, nutrition, and mindfulness—to help you create a balanced, healthy life. I believe that everyone’s journey is unique, so I’m dedicated to crafting a personalized treatment plan that fits your specific needs and goals.
(332) 241-7298 View (332) 241-7298
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See more therapy options for Manhasset

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Manhasset, NY

20+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Manhasset, NY who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
76% Bipolar Disorder
76% Medication Management
66% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
62% Trauma and PTSD
59% ADHD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% Cigna and Evernorth
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Manhasset, NY see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

53% Female
47% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Manhasset?

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.