Psychiatrists in Manorville, NY

Photo of Marie C. Patton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marie C. Patton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manorville, NY 11949  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Self-care is important to the overall wellbeing and health of an individual. Seeking assistance in sorting out day-to-day issues that impact your ability to attain your goals is the first step in working toward them. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, worried and sometimes depressed? I understand. Have a child or teen who is afraid, overwhelmed, moody and sometimes irritable? I understand that also. We all have experiences that have shaped who we are today. You are important and you have a story to tell. I am here to listen to yours and to be of service to you.
Self-care is important to the overall wellbeing and health of an individual. Seeking assistance in sorting out day-to-day issues that impact your ability to attain your goals is the first step in working toward them. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, worried and sometimes depressed? I understand. Have a child or teen who is afraid, overwhelmed, moody and sometimes irritable? I understand that also. We all have experiences that have shaped who we are today. You are important and you have a story to tell. I am here to listen to yours and to be of service to you.
(631) 318-4996 View (631) 318-4996
Photo of Catherine Poulos, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Poulos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manorville, NY 11949
At East End Mental Health, we believe in the integrative approach to behavioral health and psychiatric care. We offer our clients comprehensive array of treatment options which include individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychotherapy groups, psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacotherapies, and laboratory diagnostic/genetic testing services.
At East End Mental Health, we believe in the integrative approach to behavioral health and psychiatric care. We offer our clients comprehensive array of treatment options which include individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, psychotherapy groups, psychiatric evaluations, psychopharmacotherapies, and laboratory diagnostic/genetic testing services.
(631) 496-1420 View (631) 496-1420
Photo of Guiding Balance - Guiding Balance, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Guiding Balance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Manorville, NY 11949
Welcome to Guiding Balance. We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with genetic testing, medication management with genetic profiling, and psychotherapy. We treat pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients.
Welcome to Guiding Balance. We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with genetic testing, medication management with genetic profiling, and psychotherapy. We treat pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients.
(631) 817-4192 View (631) 817-4192

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Patricia K Spector, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Patricia K Spector
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Shirley, NY 11967  (Online Only)
Hello, have you been feeling sad, anxious, unmotivated? Are you feeling overwhelmed with mental health issues? These are some of the issues I can help you with. I look forward to meeting you and working with you to meet your personal mental health goals. Life is a precious gift and every day is a new beginning to live our best lives. If you are not living your best life because of mental health issues, I can assist you to face the challenges in your path. I am accepting new clients Teens to Adults. I offer supportive therapy, medication management, and a holistic approach.
Hello, have you been feeling sad, anxious, unmotivated? Are you feeling overwhelmed with mental health issues? These are some of the issues I can help you with. I look forward to meeting you and working with you to meet your personal mental health goals. Life is a precious gift and every day is a new beginning to live our best lives. If you are not living your best life because of mental health issues, I can assist you to face the challenges in your path. I am accepting new clients Teens to Adults. I offer supportive therapy, medication management, and a holistic approach.
(516) 774-2715 View (516) 774-2715
Photo of Susan Mogan, PMHNP, DNP, ANP-BC, AP-PMN, AHPCN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan Mogan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP, ANP-BC, AP-PMN, AHPCN
Verified Verified
Riverhead, NY 11901
Together through a trusting relationship clients and I will develop treatment plans that best suit each clients needs. I have practiced in multiple settings including office based, hospitals, Hospice/palliative care and home-care. My vast experience has provided a knowledge base that will help to provide the best care for my clients. I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorders and the symptoms of dementia. I am open-minded, warm and inquisitive and am passionate about helping others. I look forward to becoming a part of the community and helping as many clients as I can.
Together through a trusting relationship clients and I will develop treatment plans that best suit each clients needs. I have practiced in multiple settings including office based, hospitals, Hospice/palliative care and home-care. My vast experience has provided a knowledge base that will help to provide the best care for my clients. I treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use disorders, OCD, bipolar disorders and the symptoms of dementia. I am open-minded, warm and inquisitive and am passionate about helping others. I look forward to becoming a part of the community and helping as many clients as I can.
(631) 801-7697 View (631) 801-7697
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Telepsychiatry Services in Suffolk, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatry Services in Suffolk
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookhaven, NY 11719  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare). I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems, dysphoria or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare). I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems, dysphoria or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
(631) 801-0807 View (631) 801-0807
Photo of Amy C Dittler, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy C Dittler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shirley, NY 11967
Not accepting new clients
As so eloquently verbalized by an anonymous speaker during a NAMI conference, "My medications didn't teach me how to swim. They just raised the floor of the pool so my toes could touch the bottom and I wouldn't sink again." It is my belief that with the appropriate psychotherapeutic interventions no one has to go through life feeling as if they are drowning. An individual's life should not be defined by their diagnosis. Instead they should be able to find experienced, compassionate, care in order to live the life they were given to it's fullest extent.
As so eloquently verbalized by an anonymous speaker during a NAMI conference, "My medications didn't teach me how to swim. They just raised the floor of the pool so my toes could touch the bottom and I wouldn't sink again." It is my belief that with the appropriate psychotherapeutic interventions no one has to go through life feeling as if they are drowning. An individual's life should not be defined by their diagnosis. Instead they should be able to find experienced, compassionate, care in order to live the life they were given to it's fullest extent.
(646) 956-1231 View (646) 956-1231
Photo of Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, NY 11719  (Online Only)
Book an appointment online today via our website corepsychiatry.org!
Book an appointment online today via our website corepsychiatry.org!
(315) 843-0025 View (315) 843-0025
Photo of Dageria Brooks, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dageria Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moriches, NY 11955  (Online Only)
You are looking for help and before you decide where to turn you have done your research. Trying to find the right person, the right fit to help you get to where you want to go. You want to feel normal and happy within yourself because you are tired of how you are feeling. Therefore seeking mental treatment is first step to your ideal self.
You are looking for help and before you decide where to turn you have done your research. Trying to find the right person, the right fit to help you get to where you want to go. You want to feel normal and happy within yourself because you are tired of how you are feeling. Therefore seeking mental treatment is first step to your ideal self.
(516) 788-5384 View (516) 788-5384
Photo of Rena Ferguson - Rena Ferguson, MD, PC, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Rena Ferguson, MD, PC
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverhead, NY 11901
Here at 1000 Main, we treat anyone who wants to live their potential. We work on what you put in your mouth, what thoughts you put in your head, and what words come out of your mouth (and heart). Many people come saying, "Is this all my life is going to be ? Maybe I was meant to feel so bad." We help answer those questions. We may believe in you more than you believe in you. We believe depression and mental illness are a perfect storm of biology, psychology, and environment. We are equipped to look at them all so you can have brighter skies ahead.
Here at 1000 Main, we treat anyone who wants to live their potential. We work on what you put in your mouth, what thoughts you put in your head, and what words come out of your mouth (and heart). Many people come saying, "Is this all my life is going to be ? Maybe I was meant to feel so bad." We help answer those questions. We may believe in you more than you believe in you. We believe depression and mental illness are a perfect storm of biology, psychology, and environment. We are equipped to look at them all so you can have brighter skies ahead.
(631) 760-1830 View (631) 760-1830
Photo of Rosetta Richards - Rosetta Richards At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rosetta Richards At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, NY 11719  (Online Only)
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Rosetta Richards is a Board-Certified Adult and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York and New Jersey. Rosetta received her Adult NP from Stony Brook University in 1999 and her Psychiatric NP from Molloy University in 2012. She has over twenty years of inpatient experience. She is qualified and experienced in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across their lifespans.
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Rosetta Richards is a Board-Certified Adult and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York and New Jersey. Rosetta received her Adult NP from Stony Brook University in 1999 and her Psychiatric NP from Molloy University in 2012. She has over twenty years of inpatient experience. She is qualified and experienced in treating patients with psychiatric disorders across their lifespans.
(914) 344-5657 View (914) 344-5657
Photo of David Oram, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
David Oram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, NY 11719  (Online Only)
My name is David Oram, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children, teens, and adults.
My name is David Oram, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children, teens, and adults.
(718) 736-2812 View (718) 736-2812
Photo of Dr. Tiffany Cudjoe-John, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Tiffany Cudjoe-John
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Shirley, NY 11967  (Online Only)
Mental health is the foundation of our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It influences how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make decisions. If you believe that you require assistance with any of these facets of life, I can help.
Mental health is the foundation of our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It influences how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make decisions. If you believe that you require assistance with any of these facets of life, I can help.
(646) 212-2759 View (646) 212-2759
Photo of Lauren Hertwig, RN, MS, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lauren Hertwig
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978
I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner in Family Health and Psychiatry who provides treatment to patients across the lifespan. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population with psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, and alternative modalities of treatment.
I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner in Family Health and Psychiatry who provides treatment to patients across the lifespan. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population with psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, and alternative modalities of treatment.
(631) 483-2057 View (631) 483-2057
Photo of Adewunmi Bankole At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adewunmi Bankole At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, NY 11719  (Online Only)
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, PMHNP-BC is a doctoral prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry treating adults, children, adolescent and geriatric population. Dr. Bankole believes that care should be patient focus and holistic with best evidence-based practice.
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, PMHNP-BC is a doctoral prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry treating adults, children, adolescent and geriatric population. Dr. Bankole believes that care should be patient focus and holistic with best evidence-based practice.
(518) 314-5468 View (518) 314-5468
Photo of Meredith Senter, Psychiatrist
Meredith Senter
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978  (Online Only)
Dr. Senter studied psychology at Brown University. She attended medical school at Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She subsequently completed her residency in psychiatry at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, where she served as a chief resident and worked with the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder research group. Dr. Senter has experience working as an attending psychiatrist in emergency room and outpatient community mental health settings.
Dr. Senter studied psychology at Brown University. She attended medical school at Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School, where she was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She subsequently completed her residency in psychiatry at Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, where she served as a chief resident and worked with the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder research group. Dr. Senter has experience working as an attending psychiatrist in emergency room and outpatient community mental health settings.
(631) 546-7566 View (631) 546-7566
Photo of Nicola Rivers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicola Rivers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, NY 11719
Currently accepting new clients. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals of all ages. With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve optimal mental well-being.
Currently accepting new clients. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals of all ages. With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve optimal mental well-being.
(518) 759-6655 View (518) 759-6655
Photo of Frederick Scholl - Frederick Scholl Psychiatry, MS, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Frederick Scholl Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverhead, NY 11901
Frederick Scholl MSN, APRN, PMHNP is a board-certified practitioner in psychiatry, licensed and registered in NYS. He specializes in treating a number of conditions with medication, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. In addition, we are now offering medication assisted treatment with Suboxone for opioid dependence. Frederick is a consultant for several area hospitals. His extensive experience includes emergency psychiatry, geriatric, adult, forensic and outpatient care.
Frederick Scholl MSN, APRN, PMHNP is a board-certified practitioner in psychiatry, licensed and registered in NYS. He specializes in treating a number of conditions with medication, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. In addition, we are now offering medication assisted treatment with Suboxone for opioid dependence. Frederick is a consultant for several area hospitals. His extensive experience includes emergency psychiatry, geriatric, adult, forensic and outpatient care.
(631) 213-1144 View (631) 213-1144
Photo of Carol Ann Payton, PMHNP , FNP, MBA , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carol Ann Payton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , FNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Westhampton Beach, NY 11978
Over the past 18 years, I have gained knowledge and experience to provide mental health and wellness needs to our community. I have dedicated my life to healthcare in many aspects, including in-patient and out-patient care, leadership, and quality. I have achieved a Master's in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner 2016 (FNP), a Master’s in Business Administration 2020 (MBA), and a Master's as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (2021). I am board certified and provide treatment across the patient's life span. I also provide psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and other modalities to meet patients Mental Health needs.
Over the past 18 years, I have gained knowledge and experience to provide mental health and wellness needs to our community. I have dedicated my life to healthcare in many aspects, including in-patient and out-patient care, leadership, and quality. I have achieved a Master's in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner 2016 (FNP), a Master’s in Business Administration 2020 (MBA), and a Master's as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (2021). I am board certified and provide treatment across the patient's life span. I also provide psychopharmacology, psychotherapy and other modalities to meet patients Mental Health needs.
(631) 557-5995 View (631) 557-5995
Photo of Larissa Yossefi, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Larissa Yossefi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brookhaven, NY 11719
Seeking trauma therapy that honors your unique path? I specialize in a comprehensive approach, integrating CBT, EMDR, Resource Therapy (formerly Ego State Therapy), and the polyvagal systemic method. My goal is to help you harness your strengths and navigate life’s transitions—whether it's pregnancy, childbirth, or school changes. With a strong foundation of respect, trust, and self-reflection, my therapy is tailored to support your healing journey.
Seeking trauma therapy that honors your unique path? I specialize in a comprehensive approach, integrating CBT, EMDR, Resource Therapy (formerly Ego State Therapy), and the polyvagal systemic method. My goal is to help you harness your strengths and navigate life’s transitions—whether it's pregnancy, childbirth, or school changes. With a strong foundation of respect, trust, and self-reflection, my therapy is tailored to support your healing journey.
(516) 715-3176 View (516) 715-3176

See more therapy options for Manorville

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Manorville, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Manorville, NY who prioritize treating:

67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Child
67% Parenting
67% School Issues
67% Coping Skills
67% Medication Management

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Manorville, NY see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Manorville?

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.