Psychiatrists in New York, NY

Photo of Shakila Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Shakila Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering outpatient care with a focus on medication management and supportive therapy. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD, and substance use concerns. I also have a strong background in crisis stabilization and high-acuity settings, which allows me to bring calm, steady guidance even when life feels overwhelming.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering outpatient care with a focus on medication management and supportive therapy. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD, and substance use concerns. I also have a strong background in crisis stabilization and high-acuity settings, which allows me to bring calm, steady guidance even when life feels overwhelming.
(332) 249-8060 View (332) 249-8060
Photo of Dr. Emily Sykes, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Emily Sykes
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Emily Sykes is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree with Magna Cum Laude distinction from Carleton College, where she majored in biology. Dr. Sykes completed her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Toledo. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Cincinnati and was the outpatient chief resident physician.
Dr. Emily Sykes is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree with Magna Cum Laude distinction from Carleton College, where she majored in biology. Dr. Sykes completed her Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Toledo. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Cincinnati and was the outpatient chief resident physician.
(929) 560-4759 View (929) 560-4759
Photo of Jeremy R Mack, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeremy R Mack
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10128
Medication can provide wonderful relief for acute matters but only psychotherapy offers the possibility of fundamental change of life-long destructive patterns. With a combination of medication and therapy I have helped many patients to solve current problems and to achieve a better life. Board certified in child as well as adult psychiatry, I am experienced in the treatment of conditions affecting children and adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Medication can provide wonderful relief for acute matters but only psychotherapy offers the possibility of fundamental change of life-long destructive patterns. With a combination of medication and therapy I have helped many patients to solve current problems and to achieve a better life. Board certified in child as well as adult psychiatry, I am experienced in the treatment of conditions affecting children and adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
(212) 987-2815 View (212) 987-2815
Photo of Jacqueline Penn, Psychiatrist, DO
Jacqueline Penn
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Penn is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats adults, children, and adolescents. She is dedicated to providing quality, evidence-based, individualized treatment. Dr. Penn is currently an attending psychiatrist and clinical professor at New York University (NYU) and is in private practice. She is licensed in New York and California. She completed her Child & Adolescent Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and her residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. ​
Dr. Penn is a board-certified psychiatrist who treats adults, children, and adolescents. She is dedicated to providing quality, evidence-based, individualized treatment. Dr. Penn is currently an attending psychiatrist and clinical professor at New York University (NYU) and is in private practice. She is licensed in New York and California. She completed her Child & Adolescent Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and her residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. ​
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Photo of Piergiuseppe Fedele, Psychiatrist, MD
Piergiuseppe Fedele
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10016
I strive to help each patient find their way to live a rich, fulfilling life, by removing those internal obstacles that get in the way of reaching their goals. I take a comprehensive approach, starting with a full initial evaluation of your problems and establishing together the best strategy to tackle them. I believe that deep understanding can lead to long-lasting change. I work with a combination of psychotherapy techniques to help you achieve that change and to relieve suffering. When indicated, I may also recommend medications to treat symptoms that are more disabling.
I strive to help each patient find their way to live a rich, fulfilling life, by removing those internal obstacles that get in the way of reaching their goals. I take a comprehensive approach, starting with a full initial evaluation of your problems and establishing together the best strategy to tackle them. I believe that deep understanding can lead to long-lasting change. I work with a combination of psychotherapy techniques to help you achieve that change and to relieve suffering. When indicated, I may also recommend medications to treat symptoms that are more disabling.
(914) 275-0889 View (914) 275-0889
Photo of Rachel Wiedermann, Psychiatrist, MD
Rachel Wiedermann
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10025
I am a Manhattan-based psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy who provides personalized, trauma-informed treatment for a variety of conditions. Areas of focus include depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, personality, stress and trauma-related disorders, psychosis, focus and compulsive disorders, relationship strain, life transitions, career stresses, gender dysphoria, gender transitions and myriad other challenges. During your initial consultation, we will begin with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, and will discuss your current concerns, past experiences and long-term goals.
I am a Manhattan-based psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy who provides personalized, trauma-informed treatment for a variety of conditions. Areas of focus include depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, personality, stress and trauma-related disorders, psychosis, focus and compulsive disorders, relationship strain, life transitions, career stresses, gender dysphoria, gender transitions and myriad other challenges. During your initial consultation, we will begin with a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, and will discuss your current concerns, past experiences and long-term goals.
(347) 712-3917 View (347) 712-3917
Photo of Dr. Starr Montalvo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Dr. Starr Montalvo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C
Online Only
Are you struggling with mood changes, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty with attention and concentration which affect your daily functioning? Entering treatment can feel intimidating at times, but I can help you navigate the treatment process to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we can create a personalized plan, as I use a patient-centric approach and typically begin with the lowest doses of medication possible to restore balanced functioning. Not only do I believe in helping my patients to heal, but I also seek to help them evolve.
Are you struggling with mood changes, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty with attention and concentration which affect your daily functioning? Entering treatment can feel intimidating at times, but I can help you navigate the treatment process to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we can create a personalized plan, as I use a patient-centric approach and typically begin with the lowest doses of medication possible to restore balanced functioning. Not only do I believe in helping my patients to heal, but I also seek to help them evolve.
(929) 377-1259 View (929) 377-1259
Photo of Irene Tetzlaff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Irene Tetzlaff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Irene Tetzlaff is a skilled and compassionate clinician. She specializes in psychotherapeutic methods and medication management for adults and seniors. Irene utilizes a holistic approach to wellness, treating her clients as individuals and not simply a list of symptoms to be treated. She employs modern telepsychiatry platforms for her client visits.
Irene Tetzlaff is a skilled and compassionate clinician. She specializes in psychotherapeutic methods and medication management for adults and seniors. Irene utilizes a holistic approach to wellness, treating her clients as individuals and not simply a list of symptoms to be treated. She employs modern telepsychiatry platforms for her client visits.
(332) 263-3189 View (332) 263-3189
Photo of Steven Asbaghi - Steven Asbaghi, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven Asbaghi, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10016
You are human if you are struggling, especially now. You may know the burdens of depression and anxiety, and you're seeking relief. Perhaps you're looking for guidance through the challenges of relationships - dating someone new, nurturing a long-term partnership, or even establishing boundaries with family, friends, or coworkers. Sometimes life transitions - starting a family, loss of a loved one, the stress of a new job or school, a move to a new city, a traumatic event - can be overwhelming, and you're looking for support and a fresh perspective. Whatever brings you here, you've already taken a big step towards feeling better!
You are human if you are struggling, especially now. You may know the burdens of depression and anxiety, and you're seeking relief. Perhaps you're looking for guidance through the challenges of relationships - dating someone new, nurturing a long-term partnership, or even establishing boundaries with family, friends, or coworkers. Sometimes life transitions - starting a family, loss of a loved one, the stress of a new job or school, a move to a new city, a traumatic event - can be overwhelming, and you're looking for support and a fresh perspective. Whatever brings you here, you've already taken a big step towards feeling better!
(646) 859-2482 View (646) 859-2482
Photo of Adewunmi Julius Bankole, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Adewunmi Julius Bankole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in New York, Texas, DC, Washington and New Jersey and I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. At every visit, Dr. Bankole provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals. Please reach out to us today!
My name is Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, I am a doctoral prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry, providing diagnostic services, medication management and psychotherapy to individuals from 6 years old to older adult via telehealth in New York, Texas, DC, Washington and New Jersey and I utilize evidence based practice and patient preference to give my patient the best care possible. I have over a decade experience in healthcare. At every visit, Dr. Bankole provides individualized therapy that is specific and tailored to your treatment goals. Please reach out to us today!
(929) 717-4282 View (929) 717-4282
Photo of Natalya Meyerzon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natalya Meyerzon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi, I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I help people feel better by finding the right medications to support their mental health. I believe good care starts with kindness, listening, and building trust. I take time to get to know each person because everyone’s experience is different. We’ll work together to find a plan that feels right for you.
Hi, I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I help people feel better by finding the right medications to support their mental health. I believe good care starts with kindness, listening, and building trust. I take time to get to know each person because everyone’s experience is different. We’ll work together to find a plan that feels right for you.
(914) 877-2515 View (914) 877-2515
Photo of Helene R. Jacobs - Helene Jacobs, MD | Holistic Symphony Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Helene Jacobs, MD | Holistic Symphony Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a whole-person approach to help adolescents and adults, with a special focus on professional women, struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, neurodivergence, and life transitions regain control, reach their goals, and become their most joyful selves. I also specialize in parent guidance, particularly for parents of neurodiverse children with ADHD, on the autism spectrum, or other learning/processing differences. Through culturally competent care, I also help those in the LGBTQIA+ and Jewish communities who are exploring issues such as sexuality, gender, and emerging identity cultivate confidence and a sense of belonging.
I use a whole-person approach to help adolescents and adults, with a special focus on professional women, struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, neurodivergence, and life transitions regain control, reach their goals, and become their most joyful selves. I also specialize in parent guidance, particularly for parents of neurodiverse children with ADHD, on the autism spectrum, or other learning/processing differences. Through culturally competent care, I also help those in the LGBTQIA+ and Jewish communities who are exploring issues such as sexuality, gender, and emerging identity cultivate confidence and a sense of belonging.
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Photo of Adam Turner, Psychiatrist, MD
Adam Turner
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My primary goal is to help you or your child heal and be the best version of yourself. Our initial meeting will include psychiatric evaluation and assessment of need for medication. I am well-versed in psychotherapy and natural healing and use various modalities to help individuals regain both emotional and physical health. Our work will help you connect more deeply in your most important relationships and live with purpose.
My primary goal is to help you or your child heal and be the best version of yourself. Our initial meeting will include psychiatric evaluation and assessment of need for medication. I am well-versed in psychotherapy and natural healing and use various modalities to help individuals regain both emotional and physical health. Our work will help you connect more deeply in your most important relationships and live with purpose.
(917) 791-1096 View (917) 791-1096
Photo of Sharon Packer, Psychiatrist, MD
Sharon Packer
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012
Creative people can end distress-without losing creativity! I start with a comprehensive evaluation and "differential diagnosis." I customize treatment to your needs, combining natural techniques, psychopharmacology, brief CBT, arts-based or horticulture therapy, collaboration with other therapists, as needed. We review current concerns, medical, cultural, family, interpersonal, educational, vocational and substance histories, before identifying helpful-or harmful--past treatments, avoiding whatever harmed. I recognize "medical mimics" of mental symptoms, and medication side effects—and recommend natural solutions whenever possible.
Creative people can end distress-without losing creativity! I start with a comprehensive evaluation and "differential diagnosis." I customize treatment to your needs, combining natural techniques, psychopharmacology, brief CBT, arts-based or horticulture therapy, collaboration with other therapists, as needed. We review current concerns, medical, cultural, family, interpersonal, educational, vocational and substance histories, before identifying helpful-or harmful--past treatments, avoiding whatever harmed. I recognize "medical mimics" of mental symptoms, and medication side effects—and recommend natural solutions whenever possible.
(646) 681-4098 View (646) 681-4098
Photo of Nicole Passaretti, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nicole Passaretti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience, most of it in psychiatry across emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and correctional settings. In practice as an NP since 2021, I have provided compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults, with a focus on treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and insomnia. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in building collaborative, trusting relationships to support long-term mental wellness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience, most of it in psychiatry across emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and correctional settings. In practice as an NP since 2021, I have provided compassionate, evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults, with a focus on treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and insomnia. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and rooted in building collaborative, trusting relationships to support long-term mental wellness.
(914) 477-2357 View (914) 477-2357
Photo of Michelle Hamilton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michelle Hamilton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Michelle Hamilton is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a special interest in the care of adults with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.
Michelle Hamilton is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a special interest in the care of adults with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.
(646) 760-4821 View (646) 760-4821
Photo of Maria Lourdes Bunque, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN, PMHNP
Maria Lourdes Bunque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, RN, PMHNP
Online Only
I'm an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who aims to promote mental wellness for individuals and their families facing challenges. Please think of me as your mental health co-pilot, navigating alongside you with compassion, evidence-based strategies, and a whole lot of care. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, and geriatric populations, bringing a wealth of experience. I will partner with you to develop a personalized roadmap to optimal mental health. We'll work together to understand your unique needs and goals and then build a customized treatment plan that gets you there.
I'm an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who aims to promote mental wellness for individuals and their families facing challenges. Please think of me as your mental health co-pilot, navigating alongside you with compassion, evidence-based strategies, and a whole lot of care. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, and geriatric populations, bringing a wealth of experience. I will partner with you to develop a personalized roadmap to optimal mental health. We'll work together to understand your unique needs and goals and then build a customized treatment plan that gets you there.
(646) 779-8626 View (646) 779-8626
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Farias, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Rebecca Farias
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Farias is a board-certified physician in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, with a focus on the diagnosis and treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Farias graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston, majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She then pursued her medical education at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, earning her Doctor of Medicine degree. Dr. Farias completed a three-year psychiatric residency at TTUHSC, followed by fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry.
Dr. Farias is a board-certified physician in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, with a focus on the diagnosis and treatment of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Farias graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Houston, majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She then pursued her medical education at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, earning her Doctor of Medicine degree. Dr. Farias completed a three-year psychiatric residency at TTUHSC, followed by fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry.
(646) 907-5966 View (646) 907-5966
Photo of Dr. James Mueser, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Dr. James Mueser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
New York, NY 10016
Many of us feel like we are struggling under the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma, or a sense of being different. It can feel overwhelming like we are disconnected from others or lost in a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings. You might want relief from persistent sadness or overwhelming stress, or perhaps you're seeking a way to understand yourself better and live more authentically. Whatever you're going through, you want to feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more in control of your mental health journey. As a neurodiverse provider, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, and PTSD.
Many of us feel like we are struggling under the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma, or a sense of being different. It can feel overwhelming like we are disconnected from others or lost in a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings. You might want relief from persistent sadness or overwhelming stress, or perhaps you're seeking a way to understand yourself better and live more authentically. Whatever you're going through, you want to feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more in control of your mental health journey. As a neurodiverse provider, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, and PTSD.
(646) 759-9575 View (646) 759-9575
Photo of Evan Donin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evan Donin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Evan Donin is a top provider with Blossom Health - a premier team of psychiatry providers, all licensed and board-certified.
Evan Donin is a top provider with Blossom Health - a premier team of psychiatry providers, all licensed and board-certified.
(332) 241-6461 View (332) 241-6461

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

$250

Psychiatrists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
75% Medication Management
74% ADHD
71% Bipolar Disorder
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in New York, NY see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

66% Female
33% 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.