Psychiatrists in New City, NY

Hi, I'm Angela, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to guiding individuals through their mental health journeys. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a deep respect for each person’s unique experiences and challenges. I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered, and where we can work together toward your mental health goals.
Hi, I'm Angela, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to guiding individuals through their mental health journeys. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a deep respect for each person’s unique experiences and challenges. I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered, and where we can work together toward your mental health goals.

“As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. With 12 years of nursing experience working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, I understand that mental health is not one-size-fits-all. My approach integrates evidence-based treatment with a focus on the whole person mind, body, and lifestyle to create a personalized plan that promotes lasting wellbeing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing
“As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. With 12 years of nursing experience working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, I understand that mental health is not one-size-fits-all. My approach integrates evidence-based treatment with a focus on the whole person mind, body, and lifestyle to create a personalized plan that promotes lasting wellbeing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing

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.

Hi, my name is Joy Gavigan, and I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, based in the Lower Hudson Valley, NY. I received my MSN in 2020 from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing and have worked in healthcare for over 20 years.
Hi, my name is Joy Gavigan, and I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, based in the Lower Hudson Valley, NY. I received my MSN in 2020 from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing and have worked in healthcare for over 20 years.

My ideal client is someone seeking change and open to self-exploration, even if they feel unsure where to begin. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions and need a safe, supportive space to process their experiences. Their goals include healing, building resilience, and developing healthier coping strategies. What they truly want is to feel empowered, understood, and connected—to themselves and others. They are ready to grow, and together we work to uncover meaning, build self-trust, and support lasting emotional well-being.
My ideal client is someone seeking change and open to self-exploration, even if they feel unsure where to begin. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life transitions and need a safe, supportive space to process their experiences. Their goals include healing, building resilience, and developing healthier coping strategies. What they truly want is to feel empowered, understood, and connected—to themselves and others. They are ready to grow, and together we work to uncover meaning, build self-trust, and support lasting emotional well-being.

I value the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and collaboration with parents/families, teachers and other providers to understand the patient and his/her strengths and needs in the context of the family, taking into consideration the impact of the developmental, biological, psycho-social, cultural, educational, vocational factors etc. My patients describe me as a caring, empathic and kind-hearted person. I want to help people suffering from mental health issues so that they live a happy, independent, fulfilling and productive life.
I value the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and collaboration with parents/families, teachers and other providers to understand the patient and his/her strengths and needs in the context of the family, taking into consideration the impact of the developmental, biological, psycho-social, cultural, educational, vocational factors etc. My patients describe me as a caring, empathic and kind-hearted person. I want to help people suffering from mental health issues so that they live a happy, independent, fulfilling and productive life.

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.

I have a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and am a board-certified, New York University-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental health across the lifespan. I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health and quality of life. I will partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment by going beyond the symptoms that brought you into treatment. I have a niche for caregivers, adolescents, young adults, students, and those who are grieving. I am passionate about listening deeply to your experience.
I have a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and am a board-certified, New York University-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental health across the lifespan. I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health and quality of life. I will partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment by going beyond the symptoms that brought you into treatment. I have a niche for caregivers, adolescents, young adults, students, and those who are grieving. I am passionate about listening deeply to your experience.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for adults with mental health concerns. I incorporate supportive psychotherapy in my sessions and take a holistic approach, placing emphasis on lifestyle modifications, sleep hygiene, and nutrition. I have worked in different roles in oncology for over 9 years and provide support to individuals who have been affected by cancer (oncology patients, survivors, caregivers, and individuals experiencing loss). I have a strong understanding of the unique needs that can arise through all phases of the cancer journey.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for adults with mental health concerns. I incorporate supportive psychotherapy in my sessions and take a holistic approach, placing emphasis on lifestyle modifications, sleep hygiene, and nutrition. I have worked in different roles in oncology for over 9 years and provide support to individuals who have been affected by cancer (oncology patients, survivors, caregivers, and individuals experiencing loss). I have a strong understanding of the unique needs that can arise through all phases of the cancer journey.

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.

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.

Sometimes it's hard to accept that you may need more than "a little help" and don't know where to start. Maybe you are beyond that stage and is looking for the right fit to continue your psychiatric needs; If you are looking for a warm, non judgmental atmosphere where your treatment is looked as a partnership, then you have made the right choice. Complete the intake form on my website to initiate your first appointment.
Sometimes it's hard to accept that you may need more than "a little help" and don't know where to start. Maybe you are beyond that stage and is looking for the right fit to continue your psychiatric needs; If you are looking for a warm, non judgmental atmosphere where your treatment is looked as a partnership, then you have made the right choice. Complete the intake form on my website to initiate your first appointment.

As a board certified licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have undertaken to help individuals restore their vitality and resume a life of meaning and purpose. Depression, anxiety, trauma, hyperactivity, and stress are some of the issues that are part of ones complicated life that can lead to dysfunction and suffering. A compassionate approach with an emphasis on ones cultural background, life experiences, and ones personal needs, help to shape the focus of my treatment. Setting realistic and far reaching goals that help individuals not only return to the life they once knew, but concentrate on a brighter and successful future filled with joy and accomplishment.
As a board certified licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have undertaken to help individuals restore their vitality and resume a life of meaning and purpose. Depression, anxiety, trauma, hyperactivity, and stress are some of the issues that are part of ones complicated life that can lead to dysfunction and suffering. A compassionate approach with an emphasis on ones cultural background, life experiences, and ones personal needs, help to shape the focus of my treatment. Setting realistic and far reaching goals that help individuals not only return to the life they once knew, but concentrate on a brighter and successful future filled with joy and accomplishment.

You’re tired of anxiety, stress, or past experiences holding you back. You want real tools, real change, and a therapist who gets it. You’re ready to feel more in control, build stronger relationships, and move forward with confidence.
You’re tired of anxiety, stress, or past experiences holding you back. You want real tools, real change, and a therapist who gets it. You’re ready to feel more in control, build stronger relationships, and move forward with confidence.

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.

I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.

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).
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Welcome My name is Yanet Ferro, I'm a Hispanic bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatric care licensed in Florida and New York. Fluent in Spanish, I diagnose and treat a range of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, weight loss and mood disorders. I am currently accepting new patients for in-office visits as well as Telehealth consultations and I accept various insurances.
Welcome My name is Yanet Ferro, I'm a Hispanic bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in general psychiatric care licensed in Florida and New York. Fluent in Spanish, I diagnose and treat a range of mental health disorders, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, weight loss and mood disorders. I am currently accepting new patients for in-office visits as well as Telehealth consultations and I accept various insurances.

Joseph Gagnon, CRNP, owner of Psychiatric Edge, believes that mental health care should be accessible, convenient, and compassionate. Joe's practice is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric services to individuals across NJ, PA, and NY. We have the capability of seeing clients in person or virtually. We strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and achieve their mental health goals. Joe truly takes the time to listen to his clients through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy sessions. Schedule today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
Joseph Gagnon, CRNP, owner of Psychiatric Edge, believes that mental health care should be accessible, convenient, and compassionate. Joe's practice is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric services to individuals across NJ, PA, and NY. We have the capability of seeing clients in person or virtually. We strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and achieve their mental health goals. Joe truly takes the time to listen to his clients through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy sessions. Schedule today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow!

I am a clinical psychiatrist in New York City, where I see both individuals and couples in my private practice. I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Medical School and completed my psychiatric residency at the Payne Whitney Clinic of New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center and my psychoanalytic training at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training & Research. I am Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical Center, Assistant Attending Psychiatrist at NY Presbyterian Hospital, and teach at Weill-Cornell Medical School.
I am a clinical psychiatrist in New York City, where I see both individuals and couples in my private practice. I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Medical School and completed my psychiatric residency at the Payne Whitney Clinic of New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center and my psychoanalytic training at Columbia University Center for Psychoanalytic Training & Research. I am Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical Center, Assistant Attending Psychiatrist at NY Presbyterian Hospital, and teach at Weill-Cornell Medical School.
See more therapy options for New City
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in New City, NY
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in New City, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
88% | Medication Management |
82% | ADHD |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
69% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in New City, NY see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New City?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.