Psychiatrists in New York, NY

Photo of Tiziano Colibazzi, Psychiatrist, MD
Tiziano Colibazzi
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10168
I am Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University and a board-certified psychiatrist committed to offering comprehensive care for individuals, couples and families. I practice and value psychotherapy because it can be an enormously powerful tool to enhance personal growth, learning and self-discovery. Being a physician enables me to offer the option of medication when needed. This has the advantage of integrating both types of treatments with one provider only. If you are already in psychotherapy, I will work in coordination with your therapist to achieve the best result.
I am Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University and a board-certified psychiatrist committed to offering comprehensive care for individuals, couples and families. I practice and value psychotherapy because it can be an enormously powerful tool to enhance personal growth, learning and self-discovery. Being a physician enables me to offer the option of medication when needed. This has the advantage of integrating both types of treatments with one provider only. If you are already in psychotherapy, I will work in coordination with your therapist to achieve the best result.
(212) 561-8911 View (212) 561-8911
Photo of Alisa Turok, Psychiatrist, MD
Alisa Turok
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Have no fear. Come and talk to me about anything that's on your mind. You won't be judged, ignored or misunderstood. I will take time to make you feel comfortable, establish a connection and get to know you better. Together we will explore all aspects of your present life and your history, analyze all contributing factors, including medical, psychological, social and spiritual. We will build a plan which might include psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, genetic testing, vitamins and supplements, nutrition or lifestyle changes. We'll take one step at a time at a pace you are comfortable with.
Have no fear. Come and talk to me about anything that's on your mind. You won't be judged, ignored or misunderstood. I will take time to make you feel comfortable, establish a connection and get to know you better. Together we will explore all aspects of your present life and your history, analyze all contributing factors, including medical, psychological, social and spiritual. We will build a plan which might include psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, genetic testing, vitamins and supplements, nutrition or lifestyle changes. We'll take one step at a time at a pace you are comfortable with.
(646) 679-7874 View (646) 679-7874
Photo of Travis Meadows - Healthy Minds NYC | Dr. Travis Meadows, Psychiatrist, MD
Healthy Minds NYC | Dr. Travis Meadows
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
VIDEO SESSIONS AVAILABLE NOW. Dr. Travis Meadows is skilled in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders using a variety of therapy techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Schema therapy, and Psychodynamic therapy.
VIDEO SESSIONS AVAILABLE NOW. Dr. Travis Meadows is skilled in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders using a variety of therapy techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Schema therapy, and Psychodynamic therapy.
(845) 977-0670 View (845) 977-0670
Photo of Dr. Kirk Ramsey, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kirk Ramsey
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Ramsey is board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. His practice primarily focuses on medication management. He sees himself as a collaborator with therapists and counselors in caring for their shared patients and their families. He received his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, TN. He completed his residency at West Virginia University Hospitals and WVU School of Medicine and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Yale Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, and Yale-New Haven Hospital in New Haven and Middletown, CT.
Dr. Ramsey is board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. His practice primarily focuses on medication management. He sees himself as a collaborator with therapists and counselors in caring for their shared patients and their families. He received his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, TN. He completed his residency at West Virginia University Hospitals and WVU School of Medicine and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at the Yale Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, and Yale-New Haven Hospital in New Haven and Middletown, CT.
(646) 722-0953 View (646) 722-0953
Photo of Hee Seung Haley Lee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hee Seung Haley Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
New York, NY 10001
I am a Yale-trained, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing care for adults in NY & NJ. I specialize in working with adults with mood disorders, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. Many of my clients seek support for stress management, relationship difficulties, emotional regulation and more. I provide individualized treatment that integrates evidence-based psychotherapy and medication management, focusing on coping skills, emotional resilience, and self-awareness to ensure personalized care.
I am a Yale-trained, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing care for adults in NY & NJ. I specialize in working with adults with mood disorders, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. Many of my clients seek support for stress management, relationship difficulties, emotional regulation and more. I provide individualized treatment that integrates evidence-based psychotherapy and medication management, focusing on coping skills, emotional resilience, and self-awareness to ensure personalized care.
(718) 619-4745 View (718) 619-4745
Photo of Jeanie Tse, Psychiatrist, MD, BC
Jeanie Tse
Psychiatrist, MD, BC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a therapist and physician experienced in helping people of all ages experiencing depression, anxiety, learning difficulties, medical illnesses and other challenges. Life brings many transitions and crises, and you may need the right people on your team to navigate through them. Your solutions may include psychotherapy, medication, or other treatments, and I will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan. I believe that the foundation of treatment is a person's core values and goals. Using education and motivation-based counseling, I aim to give people the tools to take care of their health.
I am a therapist and physician experienced in helping people of all ages experiencing depression, anxiety, learning difficulties, medical illnesses and other challenges. Life brings many transitions and crises, and you may need the right people on your team to navigate through them. Your solutions may include psychotherapy, medication, or other treatments, and I will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan. I believe that the foundation of treatment is a person's core values and goals. Using education and motivation-based counseling, I aim to give people the tools to take care of their health.
(646) 392-8302 View (646) 392-8302
Photo of Dr. Candice Hacker, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Candice Hacker
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Candice Hacker is a board-certified Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She completed her Psychiatry residency and a fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Mount Sinai/St. Luke's Hospital. She is passionate about a holistic approach to patient care, trained in psychosomatic medicine and she has a deep appreciation for the intricate connection between the mind and body.
Dr. Candice Hacker is a board-certified Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She completed her Psychiatry residency and a fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Mount Sinai/St. Luke's Hospital. She is passionate about a holistic approach to patient care, trained in psychosomatic medicine and she has a deep appreciation for the intricate connection between the mind and body.
(646) 585-1378 View (646) 585-1378
Photo of Dr. Glenn Hann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dr. Glenn Hann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Glenn is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Glenn has spent the majority of his nearly 30-year career in Health Care working to meet the mental health needs of those in his community. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, Glenn has demonstrated his commitment to helping others become the best versions of themselves regardless of where they are at during that first appointment. When not working, Glenn enjoys spending time with his family, biking, and being outdoors.
Glenn is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Glenn has spent the majority of his nearly 30-year career in Health Care working to meet the mental health needs of those in his community. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, Glenn has demonstrated his commitment to helping others become the best versions of themselves regardless of where they are at during that first appointment. When not working, Glenn enjoys spending time with his family, biking, and being outdoors.
(646) 956-2794 View (646) 956-2794
Photo of Justine Bello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Justine Bello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I treat ages 18 to 55 living with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I specialize in personalized medication management and brief psychotherapy tailored to each individual's distinctive needs.
I treat ages 18 to 55 living with a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders. I specialize in personalized medication management and brief psychotherapy tailored to each individual's distinctive needs.
(332) 334-8138 View (332) 334-8138
Photo of Fatimah K Boone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fatimah K Boone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Does anxiety give you racing and overwhelming thoughts? Are you lacking all motivation and feeling sadness? Does the memory of trauma overshadow your daily life and interactions with other people? Do you go through long periods of sadness and have days or weeks of amazing energy, sleeplessness, and impulsive behavior? I can help you change your life from emotionally burdened or unpredictable to even-keeled. I am a Vanderbilt University educated, Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who helps through medication management and EMDR and person-centered psychotherapy.
Does anxiety give you racing and overwhelming thoughts? Are you lacking all motivation and feeling sadness? Does the memory of trauma overshadow your daily life and interactions with other people? Do you go through long periods of sadness and have days or weeks of amazing energy, sleeplessness, and impulsive behavior? I can help you change your life from emotionally burdened or unpredictable to even-keeled. I am a Vanderbilt University educated, Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who helps through medication management and EMDR and person-centered psychotherapy.
(929) 456-5485 View (929) 456-5485
Photo of Colette Pycha, Psychiatric Nurse, CS, NP
Colette Pycha
Psychiatric Nurse, CS, NP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues and see patients for both psychotherapy and for medication management and work collaboratively with other therapists for the psychopharmacological treatment of their patient. My approach reflects an integration of training and experience with psychodynamic, gestalt, DBT/CBT and mindfulness . I work with adult clients who seek relief from a wide variety of issues such as depression, sadness, grief and anxiety.
I have experience working with a broad range of psychiatric issues and see patients for both psychotherapy and for medication management and work collaboratively with other therapists for the psychopharmacological treatment of their patient. My approach reflects an integration of training and experience with psychodynamic, gestalt, DBT/CBT and mindfulness . I work with adult clients who seek relief from a wide variety of issues such as depression, sadness, grief and anxiety.
(646) 863-5473 View (646) 863-5473
Photo of Matthew Fan, Psychiatrist, MD
Matthew Fan
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Fan joined NYC Psychiatric Associates with the goal of providing his patients an extra level of care and compassion. He is aware that every patient is different and manages treatment with that in mind; he works to get to know his patients and find the best treatment approach for each specific condition and situation. Dr. Fan’s depth and breadth of clinical experience is unique, having served as psychiatrist in emergency room, inpatient units and forensic settings. Dr. Fan’s goal is to facilitate the start of a journey to recovery with every patient.
Dr. Fan joined NYC Psychiatric Associates with the goal of providing his patients an extra level of care and compassion. He is aware that every patient is different and manages treatment with that in mind; he works to get to know his patients and find the best treatment approach for each specific condition and situation. Dr. Fan’s depth and breadth of clinical experience is unique, having served as psychiatrist in emergency room, inpatient units and forensic settings. Dr. Fan’s goal is to facilitate the start of a journey to recovery with every patient.
(929) 552-3511 x1 View (929) 552-3511 x1
Photo of Dr. Sara Mateo, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sara Mateo
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Sara Mateo holds the position of staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is a board-eligible adult Psychiatrist. Dr. Mateo completed her Medical degree at the University of Benghazi- Faculty of Medicine and finished General Psychiatry Residency training at Tower Health/Drexel Phoenixville Hospital. Throughout her career, Dr. Mateo has actively contributed to various leadership roles and committees, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical education and promoting diversity in the field.
Dr. Sara Mateo holds the position of staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is a board-eligible adult Psychiatrist. Dr. Mateo completed her Medical degree at the University of Benghazi- Faculty of Medicine and finished General Psychiatry Residency training at Tower Health/Drexel Phoenixville Hospital. Throughout her career, Dr. Mateo has actively contributed to various leadership roles and committees, demonstrating her commitment to advancing medical education and promoting diversity in the field.
(646) 783-2612 View (646) 783-2612
Photo of Dr. Walter Piddoubny, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Walter Piddoubny
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Walter Piddoubny is a double boarded psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate degree at Stony Brook University followed by his medical degree at SUNY Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. He completed his Psychiatry Residency at Stony Brook University Hospital followed by his fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Yale New Haven Hospital. Dr. Piddoubny has held academic appointment at Stony Brook University Hospital practicing as a consultant psychiatrist as well as Associate Program Director of the Psychiatry Residency Program.
Dr. Walter Piddoubny is a double boarded psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry and Consultation Liaison Psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate degree at Stony Brook University followed by his medical degree at SUNY Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. He completed his Psychiatry Residency at Stony Brook University Hospital followed by his fellowship in Consultation Liaison Psychiatry at Yale New Haven Hospital. Dr. Piddoubny has held academic appointment at Stony Brook University Hospital practicing as a consultant psychiatrist as well as Associate Program Director of the Psychiatry Residency Program.
(646) 542-0259 View (646) 542-0259
Photo of Sean Murphy - Sean Murphy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC
Sean Murphy, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If psychiatric symptoms cause you pain, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management can help you improve function and decrease distress. In our sessions, I create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower my patients by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to each individual's unique experiences and aspirations.
If psychiatric symptoms cause you pain, I want to help. Evidence-based psychiatric medication management can help you improve function and decrease distress. In our sessions, I create an environment of understanding and empathy. My goal is to empower my patients by offering compassionate, affirming, and personalized care tailored to each individual's unique experiences and aspirations.
(929) 325-0206 View (929) 325-0206
Photo of Kelseanne Breder, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, RN-BC
Kelseanne Breder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, RN-BC
New York, NY 10028
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a psychoanalytic candidate at New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. I earned my PhD and two masters degrees from Columbia University in the City of New York. In addition to seeing patients in my private practice, I work as a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU, where I teach graduate psychotherapy and narrative medicine techniques.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a psychoanalytic candidate at New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. I earned my PhD and two masters degrees from Columbia University in the City of New York. In addition to seeing patients in my private practice, I work as a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU, where I teach graduate psychotherapy and narrative medicine techniques.
(914) 546-4854 View (914) 546-4854
Photo of Benjamin Cheney, Psychiatrist, MD
Benjamin Cheney
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10017
As a psychiatrist in midtown Manhattan, I help people with problems affecting their mood, self-esteem, and concentration. I treat patients undergoing significant life changes and experiencing difficulties with work and relationships. I also treat substance abuse problems and prescribe buprenorphine. I tailor treatment to the particular needs of my patients that respects their privacy. I enjoy working in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis and in certain cases prescribe medication. My training draws on different sources, but I use a predominantly psychodynamic approach with patients to help them learn more about themselves, and to understand and resolve their conflicts.
As a psychiatrist in midtown Manhattan, I help people with problems affecting their mood, self-esteem, and concentration. I treat patients undergoing significant life changes and experiencing difficulties with work and relationships. I also treat substance abuse problems and prescribe buprenorphine. I tailor treatment to the particular needs of my patients that respects their privacy. I enjoy working in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis and in certain cases prescribe medication. My training draws on different sources, but I use a predominantly psychodynamic approach with patients to help them learn more about themselves, and to understand and resolve their conflicts.
(646) 863-5481 View (646) 863-5481
Photo of Dr. Anne Rohs, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Anne Rohs
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Anne Rohs is board certified in both adult and geriatric psychiatry and has been in practice for over ten years. She has an extensive background working in hospital settings treating critically ill patients, which has helped hone her skills in caring for individuals with complex psychiatric illnesses complicated by medical conditions. Dr. Rohs’ approach is to provide a consistent, empathic, nonjudgmental space to develop and attain shared treatment goals.
Dr. Anne Rohs is board certified in both adult and geriatric psychiatry and has been in practice for over ten years. She has an extensive background working in hospital settings treating critically ill patients, which has helped hone her skills in caring for individuals with complex psychiatric illnesses complicated by medical conditions. Dr. Rohs’ approach is to provide a consistent, empathic, nonjudgmental space to develop and attain shared treatment goals.
(718) 816-2806 View (718) 816-2806
Photo of Jonathan Tamaiev, Psychiatrist, MD
Jonathan Tamaiev
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
My name is Dr. Tamaiev, I completed my residency training at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, and am currently completing my Child Psychiatry fellowship at Northwell LIJ/Hofstra University. I also completed a two-year psychodynamic psychotherapy program at the NYU Psychoanalytic Association of New York.
My name is Dr. Tamaiev, I completed my residency training at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, and am currently completing my Child Psychiatry fellowship at Northwell LIJ/Hofstra University. I also completed a two-year psychodynamic psychotherapy program at the NYU Psychoanalytic Association of New York.
(929) 612-5834 View (929) 612-5834
Photo of Olivia Mauricio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Olivia Mauricio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Olivia and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Burnout, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Gender, & Sexuality Topics, Stress Management, Women’s Issues, Life Coaching. 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 Olivia and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Burnout, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, LGBTQIA+, Gender, & Sexuality Topics, Stress Management, Women’s Issues, Life Coaching. 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.
(929) 383-7739 View (929) 383-7739

See more therapy options for New York

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in New York, NY

2,000+

Average cost per session

$270

Psychiatrists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
94% Depression
77% Medication Management
74% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Bipolar Disorder
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in New York, NY see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

65% Female
34% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in New York?

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.