Psychiatrists in New City, NY

Photo of Angela David - Mind Matters , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mind Matters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(845) 305-6124 View (845) 305-6124
Photo of Sady-Ann Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sady-Ann Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
“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
(845) 412-8352 View (845) 412-8352
Photo of Laura N Antar - Laura N. Antar, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, DFAPA
Laura N. Antar, MD, PhD
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, DFAPA
New City, NY 10956
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
Photo of Joy Gavigan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joy Gavigan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
New City, NY 10956
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.
(845) 599-7945 View (845) 599-7945
Photo of Galina Podluzskaya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Galina Podluzskaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(845) 668-6270 View (845) 668-6270
Photo of Sadhana Sardana, Psychiatrist, MD
Sadhana Sardana
Psychiatrist, MD
New City, NY 10956
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.
(845) 203-3529 View (845) 203-3529
Photo of Elizabeth Piccolo - Elizabeth Piccolo,Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Elizabeth Piccolo,Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
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 Dr. Mary Asiedu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Mary Asiedu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(845) 209-0392 View (845) 209-0392
Photo of Katie Lindenbaum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Katie Lindenbaum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Online Only
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.
(914) 218-6069 View (914) 218-6069
Photo of Varsha Vaidya Kunnirickal, Psychiatrist, MD
Varsha Vaidya Kunnirickal
Psychiatrist, MD
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
Photo of Nelson Romero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Nelson Romero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
New City, NY 10956
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 Monique Scott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Monique Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
New City, NY 10956
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.
(423) 373-5968 View (423) 373-5968
Photo of Nechama Keller-Sabel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Nechama Keller-Sabel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Serves Area
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.
(845) 363-6447 View (845) 363-6447
Photo of Samira Hafiz - Your NP in Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Your NP in Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(332) 232-6740 View (332) 232-6740
Photo of Monowara Begum, Psychiatrist, MD
Monowara Begum
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Hong Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Hong Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(845) 456-9502 View (845) 456-9502
Photo of Dominic Joseph Ferro, Psychiatrist, MD
Dominic Joseph Ferro
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Yanet Ferro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-B
Yanet Ferro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
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.
(954) 231-7196 View (954) 231-7196
Photo of Joseph Gagnon - Psychiatric Edge, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Psychiatric Edge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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!
(908) 650-1373 View (908) 650-1373
Photo of Samuel L Pauker, Psychiatrist, MD
Samuel L Pauker
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
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.
(646) 766-0219 View (646) 766-0219

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.

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.