Psychiatrists in Nanuet, NY

Photo of Dominic Joseph Ferro, MD, Psychiatrist
Dominic Joseph Ferro
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanuet, NY 10954
I am a general psychiatrist treating a wide array of psychiatric problems. I have experience with patients with mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders as well as ADHD. I also treat adolescents with these problems. I also have experience working with people with personality disorders. I work with some people psychotherapeutically, but I also perform diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacology consultation for people in therapy with other mental health professionals. I am also certified to treat opiate dependence with buprenorphine (Suboxone).
I am a general psychiatrist treating a wide array of psychiatric problems. I have experience with patients with mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders as well as ADHD. I also treat adolescents with these problems. I also have experience working with people with personality disorders. I work with some people psychotherapeutically, but I also perform diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacology consultation for people in therapy with other mental health professionals. I am also certified to treat opiate dependence with buprenorphine (Suboxone).
(845) 443-7334 View (845) 443-7334
Photo of Saron Fong, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Saron Fong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanuet, NY 10954
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience in various healthcare settings, including acute and chronic illness. I work with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, and other related mental illnesses. I enjoy working with individuals to make a positive difference with the goal of positive outcomes in their lives, with their families, and within their communities.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two decades of healthcare experience in various healthcare settings, including acute and chronic illness. I work with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, and other related mental illnesses. I enjoy working with individuals to make a positive difference with the goal of positive outcomes in their lives, with their families, and within their communities.
(845) 640-5693 View (845) 640-5693
Photo of Dr. Randy Ian Pardell, MD, DLFAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Randy Ian Pardell
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanuet, NY 10954
Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation . Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation . Our expertise is the treatment of Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, and Psychotic Disorders. We provide empathy, time and care to each of our patients
(845) 262-2447 View (845) 262-2447
Photo of Shakeeb Hussain, MD, Psychiatrist
Shakeeb Hussain
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nanuet, NY 10954
I work with a collaborative group of providers at Clearwave Psychiatry where we provide in-person appointments as well as telehealth appointments. Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
I work with a collaborative group of providers at Clearwave Psychiatry where we provide in-person appointments as well as telehealth appointments. Our psychiatric clinicians address both the physiological and psychological aspects of each patient to create the optimal individualized treatment plan including genetic testing to inform medication management, nutritional supplementation, QEEG mapping, neurofeedback, psychotherapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
(914) 825-4271 View (914) 825-4271
Photo of Helene Anne Miller - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nanuet, NY 10954
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) is now in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), making high-quality psychiatric and therapeutic care more affordable and accessible for patients across New Jersey and New York. We provide telehealth services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere. Our expert providers offer support for children, adolescents, and adults, and we offer same-day crisis appointments to ensure you get help when you need it most.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) is now in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), making high-quality psychiatric and therapeutic care more affordable and accessible for patients across New Jersey and New York. We provide telehealth services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere. Our expert providers offer support for children, adolescents, and adults, and we offer same-day crisis appointments to ensure you get help when you need it most.
(201) 258-3240 View (201) 258-3240
Photo of Parvesh K Shrama - Parvesh Sharma, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Parvesh Sharma, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nanuet, NY 10954
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Dr. Parvesh Sharma. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in the treatment of adults aged 18 and above, addressing a diverse range of psychiatric issues. My expertise includes managing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, ODD, and stress associated with personal challenges or any mental illness. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to support the mental well-being of my patients.
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Dr. Parvesh Sharma. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in the treatment of adults aged 18 and above, addressing a diverse range of psychiatric issues. My expertise includes managing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, ODD, and stress associated with personal challenges or any mental illness. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to support the mental well-being of my patients.
(845) 608-3611 View (845) 608-3611
Photo of Nelson Romero, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nelson Romero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a PMHNP deeply committed to delivering high-quality, empathetic, and thorough mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. My robust clinical abilities complement my innate capacity to establish strong connections with patients and their families. My practice is rooted in evidence-based guidelines, combining clinical expertise with personal observation and intuition. I prioritize interdisciplinary education and foster collaboration among healthcare professionals, emphasizing a holistic, patient-centered approach to health and well-being.
I am a PMHNP deeply committed to delivering high-quality, empathetic, and thorough mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. My robust clinical abilities complement my innate capacity to establish strong connections with patients and their families. My practice is rooted in evidence-based guidelines, combining clinical expertise with personal observation and intuition. I prioritize interdisciplinary education and foster collaboration among healthcare professionals, emphasizing a holistic, patient-centered approach to health and well-being.
(845) 660-6178 View (845) 660-6178
Photo of Amy Berretta, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amy Berretta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, and sleep issues? I provide a safe and open environment to help assess and address these issues. If you are eager and willing to help improve your quality of life and start living, I am here to help you. Providing services for depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, sleep issues as well as many other mental health conditions.
Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, and sleep issues? I provide a safe and open environment to help assess and address these issues. If you are eager and willing to help improve your quality of life and start living, I am here to help you. Providing services for depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, sleep issues as well as many other mental health conditions.
(845) 825-7469 View (845) 825-7469
Photo of Adrian Averion, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adrian Averion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! With everything going on now, life has been tough for many of us. I believe one of our greatest strengths as humans is our ability to bounce back and stay resilient. I’m here to help you become the best version of yourself and navigate life’s challenges. I’m passionate about supporting people through mental health struggles like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. My approach is holistic, blending medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. I believe in a collaborative partnership where you feel truly seen and understood. Together, we’ll create a clear plan to improve your life and work towards your personal goals.
Welcome! With everything going on now, life has been tough for many of us. I believe one of our greatest strengths as humans is our ability to bounce back and stay resilient. I’m here to help you become the best version of yourself and navigate life’s challenges. I’m passionate about supporting people through mental health struggles like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. My approach is holistic, blending medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. I believe in a collaborative partnership where you feel truly seen and understood. Together, we’ll create a clear plan to improve your life and work towards your personal goals.
(929) 460-8256 View (929) 460-8256
Clovis Raymond
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Clovis Raymond, M.D., serving children, adolescents, and adults. Our goal is to provide you and your family timely, comprehensive, respectful, quality services in a safe and pleasant clinical environment.
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Clovis Raymond, M.D., serving children, adolescents, and adults. Our goal is to provide you and your family timely, comprehensive, respectful, quality services in a safe and pleasant clinical environment.
(845) 704-2768 View (845) 704-2768
Photo of Kirstie M Crespo-Solomon, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kirstie M Crespo-Solomon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked in the healthcare field for over fifteen years, with a strong background in emergency medicine, and behavioral health. The last 15 years have prepared me to continue to be a leader in the profession.
I have worked in the healthcare field for over fifteen years, with a strong background in emergency medicine, and behavioral health. The last 15 years have prepared me to continue to be a leader in the profession.
(929) 395-1830 View (929) 395-1830
Photo of Laura N Antar - Laura N. Antar, MD, PhD, PLLC, MD, PhD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Laura N. Antar, MD, PhD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I specialize in state-of-the-art, outpatient treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience treating patients with bipolar disorder, mood disorders, PTSD and ADHD. Most of my patients work, go to school and are able to live their lives, but have issues that "get in their way." Others experience more significant distress. I treat each person with what he or she needs, whether it is with talk therapy, medicine, or a combination of both. I do not insist my patients stay in therapy for years, as independence is our mutual goal.
I specialize in state-of-the-art, outpatient treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience treating patients with bipolar disorder, mood disorders, PTSD and ADHD. Most of my patients work, go to school and are able to live their lives, but have issues that "get in their way." Others experience more significant distress. I treat each person with what he or she needs, whether it is with talk therapy, medicine, or a combination of both. I do not insist my patients stay in therapy for years, as independence is our mutual goal.
(845) 367-4800 View (845) 367-4800

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Patricia M Waite, MD, Psychiatrist
Patricia M Waite
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Pomona, NY 10970
Find caring and competent treatment at Essential Medical, where we support your mental well-being. We are here for you! Let Essential Medical partner with you on your journey to a better you.
Find caring and competent treatment at Essential Medical, where we support your mental well-being. We are here for you! Let Essential Medical partner with you on your journey to a better you.
(845) 493-3018 View (845) 493-3018
Photo of Elizabeth Piccolo - Elizabeth Piccolo,Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Elizabeth Piccolo,Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
My practice is ideal for those clients seeking a combination of a nursing and medical perspective. I am an advanced practice nurse with a board certification in Family Psychiatry. My license and certification allows me the privledge to prescribe medication while encorporating therapeutic modalities. I am able to treat and diagnose a diverse population with ages ranging from adolescent to geriatric. I have treated individuals with emotional and psychiatric needs including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, child ADHD and adult ADD, Substance Abuse, Post traumatic stress disorder, Anxiety disorders, Sleep disturbance and Alzheimers Dementia.
My practice is ideal for those clients seeking a combination of a nursing and medical perspective. I am an advanced practice nurse with a board certification in Family Psychiatry. My license and certification allows me the privledge to prescribe medication while encorporating therapeutic modalities. I am able to treat and diagnose a diverse population with ages ranging from adolescent to geriatric. I have treated individuals with emotional and psychiatric needs including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, child ADHD and adult ADD, Substance Abuse, Post traumatic stress disorder, Anxiety disorders, Sleep disturbance and Alzheimers Dementia.
(845) 694-7012 View (845) 694-7012
Photo of Semenov Yakov, MD, Psychiatrist
Semenov Yakov
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960
Dr. Yakov Semenov is a Board-certified Psychiatrist practicing Adult psychiatry and psychotherapy in the US since 2009. He trained at Russian State Medical University before completing psychiatry residency at The University of Texas, Houston. Dr. Semenov employs an integrative approach, blending individual psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medication management for psychiatric issues. He leads an active life, engaging in sports, travel, reading, and playing guitar.
Dr. Yakov Semenov is a Board-certified Psychiatrist practicing Adult psychiatry and psychotherapy in the US since 2009. He trained at Russian State Medical University before completing psychiatry residency at The University of Texas, Houston. Dr. Semenov employs an integrative approach, blending individual psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medication management for psychiatric issues. He leads an active life, engaging in sports, travel, reading, and playing guitar.
(845) 328-5633 View (845) 328-5633
Photo of Lucille Contreras Sollazzo, MSN, RN, ACCEP, ERM, Psychiatric Nurse
Lucille Contreras Sollazzo
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, RN, ACCEP, ERM
Verified Verified
Online Only
ERM is for couples who are interested in achieving the deep potential of intimate relationships. Having been trained in and practicing ERM & being a Core Energetics Practitoner (working with individuals in an evolutionary somatic process), has given me the art, science and intuition to work with people in an emotionally focused, embodied, experiential, empathy driven & evolutionary way, to support individuals & couples to evolve together as individuals & as a couple. I have dedicated my years of work to support queer couples & individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community.
ERM is for couples who are interested in achieving the deep potential of intimate relationships. Having been trained in and practicing ERM & being a Core Energetics Practitoner (working with individuals in an evolutionary somatic process), has given me the art, science and intuition to work with people in an emotionally focused, embodied, experiential, empathy driven & evolutionary way, to support individuals & couples to evolve together as individuals & as a couple. I have dedicated my years of work to support queer couples & individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community.
(914) 407-3689 View (914) 407-3689
Photo of Elizabeth Feingold, MD, Psychiatrist
Elizabeth Feingold
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
I am a Columbia/Cornell trained, triple board certified psychiatrist with broad training in psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, forensic psychiatry, and emergency psychiatry. I work with patients to get practical outcomes, such as improving school or work performance, relationships, or self-esteem.
I am a Columbia/Cornell trained, triple board certified psychiatrist with broad training in psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, forensic psychiatry, and emergency psychiatry. I work with patients to get practical outcomes, such as improving school or work performance, relationships, or self-esteem.
(917) 832-1923 View (917) 832-1923
Photo of Nancy Pletcher, PMHNP, MSN, CNOR, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Pletcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, CNOR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nancy and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety and medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nancy and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 7 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety and medication management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(347) 789-7509 View (347) 789-7509
Photo of Monowara Begum, MD, Psychiatrist
Monowara Begum
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to my private practice. Do not suffer in silence, there is hope and help. I have extensive experience of over forty years treating anxiety, depression, panic disorder, O.C.D., mood disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, among others. I provide comprehensive mental health evaluation, diagnosis,and treatment for the adult, geriatric, and adolescent population. I have special expertise in psychopharmacology and the treatment of individuals who did not respond to various treatments in the past. I believe in compassionate care, I do not give up until my patients feel they have reached their maximum level of wellbeing.
Welcome to my private practice. Do not suffer in silence, there is hope and help. I have extensive experience of over forty years treating anxiety, depression, panic disorder, O.C.D., mood disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, among others. I provide comprehensive mental health evaluation, diagnosis,and treatment for the adult, geriatric, and adolescent population. I have special expertise in psychopharmacology and the treatment of individuals who did not respond to various treatments in the past. I believe in compassionate care, I do not give up until my patients feel they have reached their maximum level of wellbeing.
(845) 764-4183 View (845) 764-4183
Photo of Varsha Vaidya Kunnirickal, MD, Psychiatrist
Varsha Vaidya Kunnirickal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist (MD &NYLic) in this field since 1996. I was Faculty at Johns Hopkins Univ School of Medicine for 12 years. I have been in private practice as a psychiatrist since 2007. I currently also work as Faculty at NYU. I specialize in diagnosis and psychopharmacological management of mental illness. I see patients 16 years and above with symptoms of attention and focus issues, obesity, gender dysphoria, anxiety depression bipolar disorder, delirium dementia and psychiatric symptoms in the setting of medical illness. I also do consultations advising patients & their families about best options for them.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist (MD &NYLic) in this field since 1996. I was Faculty at Johns Hopkins Univ School of Medicine for 12 years. I have been in private practice as a psychiatrist since 2007. I currently also work as Faculty at NYU. I specialize in diagnosis and psychopharmacological management of mental illness. I see patients 16 years and above with symptoms of attention and focus issues, obesity, gender dysphoria, anxiety depression bipolar disorder, delirium dementia and psychiatric symptoms in the setting of medical illness. I also do consultations advising patients & their families about best options for them.
(845) 581-7857 View (845) 581-7857

See more therapy options for Nanuet

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Nanuet, NY

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Nanuet, NY who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
92% ADHD
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Bipolar Disorder
83% Sleep or Insomnia
83% Medication Management

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Nanuet, NY see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Male
40% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Nanuet?

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.