Psychiatrists in Manlius, NY

Photo of Jessie Zhe Lin, FPMHNP, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessie Zhe Lin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, NPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104
Accepting New Patients. I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP-BC) with nine years of experience. Licensed in New York State to diagnose, provide therapy, education, and prescribe medications for mental health conditions. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in outpatient mental health clinics across the Central New York (CNY) region. I earned my Master’s degree in Family Psychiatry Mental Health from SUNY Upstate School of Nursing, graduating with high honors, and I am nationally accredited in Psychiatry across the lifespan by the ANCC.
Accepting New Patients. I am a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP-BC) with nine years of experience. Licensed in New York State to diagnose, provide therapy, education, and prescribe medications for mental health conditions. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in outpatient mental health clinics across the Central New York (CNY) region. I earned my Master’s degree in Family Psychiatry Mental Health from SUNY Upstate School of Nursing, graduating with high honors, and I am nationally accredited in Psychiatry across the lifespan by the ANCC.
(315) 640-3835 View (315) 640-3835
Photo of Dr. Archana Kathpal, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Archana Kathpal
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104
If you’re facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or stress, and need expert medication management, you’re in the right place. As one of the few psychiatrists in the area with triple board certification in Adult, Child/Adolescent, and Forensic Psychiatry, I specialize primarily in working with children and adolescents, bringing extensive expertise to address their unique needs. Additionally, I provide comprehensive care for adults. In my practice, I take inspiration from the Sanskrit word “Vihaan,” meaning sunrise, aiming to help each patient experience a new dawn in their mental health journey.
If you’re facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or stress, and need expert medication management, you’re in the right place. As one of the few psychiatrists in the area with triple board certification in Adult, Child/Adolescent, and Forensic Psychiatry, I specialize primarily in working with children and adolescents, bringing extensive expertise to address their unique needs. Additionally, I provide comprehensive care for adults. In my practice, I take inspiration from the Sanskrit word “Vihaan,” meaning sunrise, aiming to help each patient experience a new dawn in their mental health journey.
(315) 908-0912 View (315) 908-0912
Photo of LORNA Cordella Forbes - Lorna Forbes NP in Psychiatry and Family Health PL, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lorna Forbes NP in Psychiatry and Family Health PL
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104
It has always been my dream to have my own practice and I thank God that it is finally happening. My personal philosophy in life is to put God first, being thankful for all that I have, to always be kind to others even if it is seen by some as weakness, always be empathic, to look at my struggles as an opportunity for self-improvement and an opportunity to help others and finally to be a beacon of light to all who cross my path For my patients, I desire to travel with them on their journey as they navigate their way through life.
It has always been my dream to have my own practice and I thank God that it is finally happening. My personal philosophy in life is to put God first, being thankful for all that I have, to always be kind to others even if it is seen by some as weakness, always be empathic, to look at my struggles as an opportunity for self-improvement and an opportunity to help others and finally to be a beacon of light to all who cross my path For my patients, I desire to travel with them on their journey as they navigate their way through life.
(680) 201-5549 View (680) 201-5549
Photo of Julie Middleton, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Middleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Manlius, NY 13104
Welcome to Dynamic Emotional Wellness! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2013.. I recognize that each individual is unique and that psychiatric issues can be challenging. Clients who present to me are often struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADD or schizophrenia and benefit from the assistance that medications can provide. I work one-on-one with clients to develop a treatment program that they are comfortable with and that helps them move toward reaching their goals.
Welcome to Dynamic Emotional Wellness! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2013.. I recognize that each individual is unique and that psychiatric issues can be challenging. Clients who present to me are often struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADD or schizophrenia and benefit from the assistance that medications can provide. I work one-on-one with clients to develop a treatment program that they are comfortable with and that helps them move toward reaching their goals.
(315) 756-3198 View (315) 756-3198
Photo of Jarrod A. Marks - Jarrod A. Marks, MD , MD, Psychiatrist
Jarrod A. Marks, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manlius, NY 13104  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. As a physician, I diagnose and treat a wide range of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I also work with people who are suffering in life from issues such as relationship or career concerns, grief and loss, life transitions, or identity issues. I will help you to know yourself better so you can experience life more fully.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. As a physician, I diagnose and treat a wide range of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I also work with people who are suffering in life from issues such as relationship or career concerns, grief and loss, life transitions, or identity issues. I will help you to know yourself better so you can experience life more fully.
(315) 365-5586 View (315) 365-5586

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13244
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(315) 610-7966 View (315) 610-7966
Photo of Angela Marie Manjgaladze, APRN, CNM, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Marie Manjgaladze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNM, PMNHP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13201
I am an experienced and passionate mental health care provider with hope to empower individuals in their own mental health care choices within a supportive network of resources. I will diligently work towards providing exceptional integrative mental health care within a trusted patient-provider relationship.
I am an experienced and passionate mental health care provider with hope to empower individuals in their own mental health care choices within a supportive network of resources. I will diligently work towards providing exceptional integrative mental health care within a trusted patient-provider relationship.
Photo of Adekola Alao - Syracuse Best TMS, MD, Psychiatrist
Syracuse Best TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NY 13066
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that targets key areas of the brain that are less active in people with moderate to severe depression. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression, and it’s typically used when other treatments haven’t allowed you to experience remission from your depression, anxiety and PTSD
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a treatment that targets key areas of the brain that are less active in people with moderate to severe depression. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression, and it’s typically used when other treatments haven’t allowed you to experience remission from your depression, anxiety and PTSD
(680) 201-5098 View (680) 201-5098
Photo of Andrew Curtin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrew Curtin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Not accepting new clients
As a former combat veteran I focus a great deal of my practice on trauma informed care and treating PTSD. My journey in the military led me to my career in nursing and later psychiatry. I have many patients that are current or former military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT's and medical staff of various disciplines. I also am very experienced with treating: anxiety, panic disorders, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
As a former combat veteran I focus a great deal of my practice on trauma informed care and treating PTSD. My journey in the military led me to my career in nursing and later psychiatry. I have many patients that are current or former military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT's and medical staff of various disciplines. I also am very experienced with treating: anxiety, panic disorders, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
(315) 291-8214 View (315) 291-8214
Photo of Khalid Sethi - NeuroSciences and Spine Group, MD, FACS, FAANS, Psychiatrist
NeuroSciences and Spine Group
Psychiatrist, MD, FACS, FAANS
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
After being in practice in Neurosurgery for 25 years; I am in awe at the amazing ability of the nervous system to heal itself with NeuroModulation. The NeuroSciences and Spine Group brings practitioners from related but different disciplines together : Psychiatry, Neurology and NeuroSurgery, in a coordinated team based approach to deliver the Care that you deserve . Partnering with SUNY -Upstate Psychiatry and NeuroStar we now offer TMS therapy for patients with Medically Refractory Depression and Anxiety.
After being in practice in Neurosurgery for 25 years; I am in awe at the amazing ability of the nervous system to heal itself with NeuroModulation. The NeuroSciences and Spine Group brings practitioners from related but different disciplines together : Psychiatry, Neurology and NeuroSurgery, in a coordinated team based approach to deliver the Care that you deserve . Partnering with SUNY -Upstate Psychiatry and NeuroStar we now offer TMS therapy for patients with Medically Refractory Depression and Anxiety.
(315) 679-4469 View (315) 679-4469
Photo of Alisha M Waterstripe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alisha M Waterstripe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Sometimes we just need a little extra help. I want to help you make your journey a little easier. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for all mental health conditions. My goal is to find the right medication and dosage for each patient's needs, while minimizing side effects and risks.
Sometimes we just need a little extra help. I want to help you make your journey a little easier. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for all mental health conditions. My goal is to find the right medication and dosage for each patient's needs, while minimizing side effects and risks.
(315) 595-5486 View (315) 595-5486
Photo of Dr. Alden Bush, DNP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Alden Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13202  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Alden Bush, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in working with adults dealing with mental health issues like ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I offer medication services only and am fully bilingual in English/Spanish. Currently, I only see patients virtually. It's important to note that I am not a Psychiatrist (MD), but I am a prescribing clinician in Psychiatry. I do NOT provide psychotherapy. Please feel free to email me or book directly with me on my website link to Headway.
I'm Dr. Alden Bush, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in working with adults dealing with mental health issues like ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I offer medication services only and am fully bilingual in English/Spanish. Currently, I only see patients virtually. It's important to note that I am not a Psychiatrist (MD), but I am a prescribing clinician in Psychiatry. I do NOT provide psychotherapy. Please feel free to email me or book directly with me on my website link to Headway.
(518) 809-8565 View (518) 809-8565
Photo of Yajaira Yuri Paparone, MD, Psychiatrist
Yajaira Yuri Paparone
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13203  (Online Only)
Dr. Paparone is an experienced psychiatrist specializing in family systems, attachment disorders, PTSD, treatment resistant depression, ADHD, post partum depression and adjustment disorders. Dr. Paparone has trained and worked closely alongside experts in the field of psychoanalytic therapy, family therapy and psychopharmacology. She has over a decade of treating patients in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
Dr. Paparone is an experienced psychiatrist specializing in family systems, attachment disorders, PTSD, treatment resistant depression, ADHD, post partum depression and adjustment disorders. Dr. Paparone has trained and worked closely alongside experts in the field of psychoanalytic therapy, family therapy and psychopharmacology. She has over a decade of treating patients in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology.
(210) 934-1105 View (210) 934-1105
Photo of Erik Frost - Brightside Health, Psychiatrist
Brightside Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206  (Online Only)
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
(315) 860-0312 View (315) 860-0312
Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13244
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(315) 904-9115 View (315) 904-9115
Photo of Triesha Gayle-Lawson - Triesha Gayle-Lawson At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Triesha Gayle-Lawson At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13201  (Online Only)
Book an appointment on our website corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Gayle-Lawson has Board Certifications from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Gayle-Lawson is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society and is affiliated with several advanced practice organizations dedicated to patient advocacy and access to quality mental health care. With over 16 years of diagnostic and treatment experience, she is well versed in the practice of psychiatry and mental health.
Book an appointment on our website corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Gayle-Lawson has Board Certifications from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Gayle-Lawson is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society and is affiliated with several advanced practice organizations dedicated to patient advocacy and access to quality mental health care. With over 16 years of diagnostic and treatment experience, she is well versed in the practice of psychiatry and mental health.
(518) 760-0234 View (518) 760-0234
Photo of Mobolaji Rosanwo, DNP, PHMNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mobolaji Rosanwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Mobolaji Rosanwo is dedicated to improving the well-being of the clients we serve through telepsychiatry and, ( in-person) mental health services when needed. We take various approaches to address each condition. We listen to their needs, understand the nature of their condition, and create the best treatment plan that is suitable for them.
Mobolaji Rosanwo is dedicated to improving the well-being of the clients we serve through telepsychiatry and, ( in-person) mental health services when needed. We take various approaches to address each condition. We listen to their needs, understand the nature of their condition, and create the best treatment plan that is suitable for them.
(410) 755-5293 View (410) 755-5293
Photo of Sean Murphy - Sean Murphy, PMHNP, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sean Murphy, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13244  (Online Only)
If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help patients improve their lives. I bring to clinic a commitment to offering you collaborative, kind, affirming, and personalized care.
If psychiatric symptoms are causing you pain and limiting your life, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management services can help patients improve their lives. I bring to clinic a commitment to offering you collaborative, kind, affirming, and personalized care.
(929) 325-0206 View (929) 325-0206
Photo of Leah D Fromm - Leah Fromm, NPP Psychiatric Services, MS, RN, NPP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Fromm, NPP Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, NPP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
I am currently welcoming new adult patients (ages 18 and older) for psychiatric evaluation and medication management in New York State. I offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment tailored to your unique needs. My approach to care is straightforward: your voice matters. You possess invaluable insights about yourself. I prioritize collaborative decision-making, integrating your insights and preferences with my clinical expertise and evidence-based research. I firmly believe in your ability to achieve and maintain wellness. It would be my privilege to support you on your path to health.
I am currently welcoming new adult patients (ages 18 and older) for psychiatric evaluation and medication management in New York State. I offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment tailored to your unique needs. My approach to care is straightforward: your voice matters. You possess invaluable insights about yourself. I prioritize collaborative decision-making, integrating your insights and preferences with my clinical expertise and evidence-based research. I firmly believe in your ability to achieve and maintain wellness. It would be my privilege to support you on your path to health.
(585) 454-9662 View (585) 454-9662
Photo of Judith H. Fager, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, ANP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judith H. Fager
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, ANP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057
Judith H. Fager is a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP), who runs her private practice with a wealth of experience in the field of psychiatry. Judith provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to her patients. As a Psychiatric NP, Judith holds advanced degrees in nursing and specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Her practice encompasses a broad range of services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, therapy, and counseling. Judith adopts a patient-centered approach, actively listening to her patients' concerns.
Judith H. Fager is a highly skilled and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (NP), who runs her private practice with a wealth of experience in the field of psychiatry. Judith provides compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to her patients. As a Psychiatric NP, Judith holds advanced degrees in nursing and specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. Her practice encompasses a broad range of services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, therapy, and counseling. Judith adopts a patient-centered approach, actively listening to her patients' concerns.
(315) 754-9793 View (315) 754-9793

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Manlius, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Manlius, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Medication Management
80% ADHD
80% Grief
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Other

How Psychiatrists in Manlius, NY see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Manlius?

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.