Psychiatrists in New York, NY

Dr. Singh is particularly passionate about addiction psychiatry. He provides tailored support for individuals struggling with alcohol and drug use, offering both medication management and therapeutic interventions. His approach is grounded in evidencebased practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but he also integrates psychodynamic principles to help patients understand the root causes of their struggles. This comprehensive approach allows Dr. Singh to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying issues that contribute to substance abuse and other mental health challenges.
Dr. Singh is particularly passionate about addiction psychiatry. He provides tailored support for individuals struggling with alcohol and drug use, offering both medication management and therapeutic interventions. His approach is grounded in evidencebased practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but he also integrates psychodynamic principles to help patients understand the root causes of their struggles. This comprehensive approach allows Dr. Singh to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying issues that contribute to substance abuse and other mental health challenges.

Highly professional Nurse Practitioner serving the community for over 15 years, both as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Medical Registered Nurse, from New York to Hawaii. My youngest patient was one hour old, my eldest 100 years old. I believe in working in partnership with each individual, to treat the holistic being for the best possible Mental Health outcome and do so via Medication management.
Highly professional Nurse Practitioner serving the community for over 15 years, both as Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Medical Registered Nurse, from New York to Hawaii. My youngest patient was one hour old, my eldest 100 years old. I believe in working in partnership with each individual, to treat the holistic being for the best possible Mental Health outcome and do so via Medication management.

Now accepting appointments for patients in WA, NY, CA, VA, MD &DC. I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who uses both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions- depression, anxiety, panic disorders, ADHD, behavioral dysregulation and school difficulties.
Now accepting appointments for patients in WA, NY, CA, VA, MD &DC. I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who uses both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions- depression, anxiety, panic disorders, ADHD, behavioral dysregulation and school difficulties.

Highly skilled psychiatrist Akeem Mobolaji Aribara, MD, has a passion for providing high-quality mental health care to his patients.
At A.Aribara Psychiatry P.C, Dr. Aribara provides care for adults struggling with a wide range of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Aribara is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to his patients and looks forward to making a positive impact on their lives.
Highly skilled psychiatrist Akeem Mobolaji Aribara, MD, has a passion for providing high-quality mental health care to his patients.
At A.Aribara Psychiatry P.C, Dr. Aribara provides care for adults struggling with a wide range of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and psychotic disorders. Dr. Aribara is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to his patients and looks forward to making a positive impact on their lives.

Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those in tough spots like shelters or with limited means. My nursing career kicked off with top honors, and I didn't stop there—I went on to master the world of psychiatry and even got my Doctorate. But it's not just about the diplomas on my wall; it's about making sure you get the latest and greatest in mental health care.

Ms. Myea Meighan, an accomplished adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner at Orenda Psychiatry, offers virtual consultations in New York State. Ms. Meighan holds a master's degree in nursing from the State University of New York, Stony Brook. Providing her services to individuals dealing with anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and various other mental health problems, she employs a holistic approach to foster emotional well-being.
Ms. Meighan's commitment to offering comprehensive virtual care ensures accessibility, allowing people to navigate their mental health journeys with her expertise.
Ms. Myea Meighan, an accomplished adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner at Orenda Psychiatry, offers virtual consultations in New York State. Ms. Meighan holds a master's degree in nursing from the State University of New York, Stony Brook. Providing her services to individuals dealing with anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and various other mental health problems, she employs a holistic approach to foster emotional well-being.
Ms. Meighan's commitment to offering comprehensive virtual care ensures accessibility, allowing people to navigate their mental health journeys with her expertise.

I specialize in distress related to parenting, pregnancy, and early adulthood. In my practice, I emphasize psychotherapy alongside the thoughtful use of psychiatric medications, and I have particular expertise in postpartum depression and anxiety, in prescribing psychiatric medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in grief related to infertility and pregnancy loss, in other mental health challenges related to women's reproductive lifecycle, and in the stresses of early adulthood. My practice centers on warm, personalized, and respectful care.
I specialize in distress related to parenting, pregnancy, and early adulthood. In my practice, I emphasize psychotherapy alongside the thoughtful use of psychiatric medications, and I have particular expertise in postpartum depression and anxiety, in prescribing psychiatric medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in grief related to infertility and pregnancy loss, in other mental health challenges related to women's reproductive lifecycle, and in the stresses of early adulthood. My practice centers on warm, personalized, and respectful care.

Hi, I’m Derek Terrell, PMHNP-BC and a graduate of Regis College. I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions affecting individuals of all ages. In particular, I normally treat clients on an outpatient basis to address all sorts of conditions involving stress and anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Typically, I often work with patients who have suffered from trauma or normally struggle with adjusting to everyday social situations. If you feel frustrated with your previous treatment, and would like a second opinion from a trained expert in the field of psychiatry, then look no further!
Hi, I’m Derek Terrell, PMHNP-BC and a graduate of Regis College. I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions affecting individuals of all ages. In particular, I normally treat clients on an outpatient basis to address all sorts of conditions involving stress and anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. Typically, I often work with patients who have suffered from trauma or normally struggle with adjusting to everyday social situations. If you feel frustrated with your previous treatment, and would like a second opinion from a trained expert in the field of psychiatry, then look no further!

Dioanne Adsuara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I am an NYU-educated, Board Certified Psych NP with 10 years experience providing authentic and non-judgmental nursing care. My practice focuses on the treatment of: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia & substance use disorders. I trained in addiction treatment, med management & psychotherapeutic modalities and takes a holistic, individualized approach to treatment.
I am an NYU-educated, Board Certified Psych NP with 10 years experience providing authentic and non-judgmental nursing care. My practice focuses on the treatment of: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia & substance use disorders. I trained in addiction treatment, med management & psychotherapeutic modalities and takes a holistic, individualized approach to treatment.

We are dedicated to promoting mental well-being and supporting individuals on their journey to better mental health. Our mission is to provide compassionate, professional services that empower our clients to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and achieve their personal goals. We offer a range of services, including individual/family therapy therapy and medication management tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Our experienced team of mental health professionals is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can explore feelings, learn coping strategies, and cultivate a healthier mindset.
We are dedicated to promoting mental well-being and supporting individuals on their journey to better mental health. Our mission is to provide compassionate, professional services that empower our clients to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and achieve their personal goals. We offer a range of services, including individual/family therapy therapy and medication management tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Our experienced team of mental health professionals is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can explore feelings, learn coping strategies, and cultivate a healthier mindset.

Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

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.

Rivka Moskowitz is an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master’s Degree at Stony Brook University where she trained to work with a variety of mental health disorders to those across the lifespan including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Her mission is to provide empathic, attentive, and evidence-based care by utilizing an integrative psychotherapy and medication management approach to treatment. She strives to provide a nonjudgmental, open and honest environment to all clients.
Rivka Moskowitz is an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master’s Degree at Stony Brook University where she trained to work with a variety of mental health disorders to those across the lifespan including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. Her mission is to provide empathic, attentive, and evidence-based care by utilizing an integrative psychotherapy and medication management approach to treatment. She strives to provide a nonjudgmental, open and honest environment to all clients.

My name is Mike Zhou - I’m a psychiatrist and psychotherapist currently accepting new patients in-person and virtually in NY, NJ, CT, and CA.
We all face challenges in our mental health at times, but taking the first step toward support can still feel daunting. My goal is to offer a space where we can work together to make sense of your situation and to create a plan for change. I believe that a safe and dependable environment and a trusting relationship with one's provider are the most important factors in growth and I aim to be dependable, responsive, and open-minded in every interaction.
I am fluent in English and Mandarin.
My name is Mike Zhou - I’m a psychiatrist and psychotherapist currently accepting new patients in-person and virtually in NY, NJ, CT, and CA.
We all face challenges in our mental health at times, but taking the first step toward support can still feel daunting. My goal is to offer a space where we can work together to make sense of your situation and to create a plan for change. I believe that a safe and dependable environment and a trusting relationship with one's provider are the most important factors in growth and I aim to be dependable, responsive, and open-minded in every interaction.
I am fluent in English and Mandarin.

Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nichole and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar, Burnout, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Nichole and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar, Burnout, Chronic Illness, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Family Issues, Life Coaching, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, OCD, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder and Stress Management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.

Aerin Hyun
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
Waitlist for new clients
Board certified Columbia trained psychiatrist (NY and NJ licensed) specializing in Women's Reproductive Health, Psychoanalysis, Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology. My Ph.D. is in English Literature, providing an additional perspective that many find enhances the treatment process, which I view largely as integrative (between medicine and the humanities, mind and body, and eastern and western perspectives).
Board certified Columbia trained psychiatrist (NY and NJ licensed) specializing in Women's Reproductive Health, Psychoanalysis, Psychotherapy and Psychopharmacology. My Ph.D. is in English Literature, providing an additional perspective that many find enhances the treatment process, which I view largely as integrative (between medicine and the humanities, mind and body, and eastern and western perspectives).

My ideal client is someone
My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with the circumstances of their lives and interested in medication management to help with their concerns. It can be easy to become overwhelmed when mental health concerns become overbearing. It is also important to find a provider who can connect with you. Often times, I work with clients who identify as LBGTQI+ and also clients who identify as women. I enjoy focusing on the mental health concerns specific to these populations. Together, we can work together to combat concerns such as depression, anxiety and PTSD.
My ideal client is someone
My ideal client is someone who has been struggling with the circumstances of their lives and interested in medication management to help with their concerns. It can be easy to become overwhelmed when mental health concerns become overbearing. It is also important to find a provider who can connect with you. Often times, I work with clients who identify as LBGTQI+ and also clients who identify as women. I enjoy focusing on the mental health concerns specific to these populations. Together, we can work together to combat concerns such as depression, anxiety and PTSD.

I completed a six-year combined undergraduate-graduate medical school program at the University of Missouri, earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Doctorate of Medicine. I completed my residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program in Baltimore, followed by a Forensic Psychiatry fellowship through Columbia University in New York City.
I completed a six-year combined undergraduate-graduate medical school program at the University of Missouri, earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Doctorate of Medicine. I completed my residency at the University of Maryland/Sheppard Pratt program in Baltimore, followed by a Forensic Psychiatry fellowship through Columbia University in New York City.

*Video Sessions Available* I welcome you as you are. You may be seeking to shift a pattern of thinking or behavior, to heal trauma from your past, or to just stop feeling so lousy. We will partner together to understand your strengths, stuck points, and goals, and we will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. We will help you create the life that you want and deserve, one step at a time, at your pace. You may see me for psychotherapy, medications, or both. I work with all adults 18 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, lack of fulfillment, trauma, creativity/performance challenges, and spiritual & cultural issues.
*Video Sessions Available* I welcome you as you are. You may be seeking to shift a pattern of thinking or behavior, to heal trauma from your past, or to just stop feeling so lousy. We will partner together to understand your strengths, stuck points, and goals, and we will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. We will help you create the life that you want and deserve, one step at a time, at your pace. You may see me for psychotherapy, medications, or both. I work with all adults 18 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, lack of fulfillment, trauma, creativity/performance challenges, and spiritual & cultural issues.

My ideal client is open to change, willing to face fears inherent in our human condition & wanting to learn & to get better. Please view below for my supportive position about the human condition. We must negotiate the contradictory directions in which we're pulled every day. Our individual vs our social self, love vs hate, work vs play. To integrate our contradictory natures, we need a tool box of psychological methods to cope with changes & to learn how, when & where to apply them to lead a productive & authentic life. For patients needing medication, I integrate pharmacotherapy with dynamic psychotherapy.
My ideal client is open to change, willing to face fears inherent in our human condition & wanting to learn & to get better. Please view below for my supportive position about the human condition. We must negotiate the contradictory directions in which we're pulled every day. Our individual vs our social self, love vs hate, work vs play. To integrate our contradictory natures, we need a tool box of psychological methods to cope with changes & to learn how, when & where to apply them to lead a productive & authentic life. For patients needing medication, I integrate pharmacotherapy with dynamic psychotherapy.
See more therapy options for New York
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in New York, NY
1,000+
Average cost per session
$299
Psychiatrists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
78% | Medication Management |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New York, NY see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | 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.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.