Psychiatrists in New York, NY

Photo of Sajmir Cepa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Sajmir Cepa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next step to take for your mental health? I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, and substance use.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next step to take for your mental health? I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, mood disorders, and substance use.
(347) 252-3820 View (347) 252-3820
Photo of Todd Mekles, Psychiatrist, MD
Todd Mekles
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Expert in treating all psychiatric conditions. Employ a targeted approach utilizing the biopsychosocial model to target appropriate medications, and utilized the appropriate therapy for mental well being. Years of success in treating the most refractory of cases. We work together to form the strongest therapeutic alliance so you can be well.
Expert in treating all psychiatric conditions. Employ a targeted approach utilizing the biopsychosocial model to target appropriate medications, and utilized the appropriate therapy for mental well being. Years of success in treating the most refractory of cases. We work together to form the strongest therapeutic alliance so you can be well.
(646) 257-3782 View (646) 257-3782
Photo of Mamadou Barry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mamadou Barry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 5 years of experience in the field of mental health, including forensic psychiatry. I have experience working with a variety of psychiatric conditions and helping patients navigate their mental health journey. I’m passionate about providing compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. I have witnessed first-hand the inadequacies in the system, from lack of resources and funding to stigma and discrimination against those struggling with mental illness. I have a passion for helping individuals overcome their struggles and achieve optimal well-being.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 5 years of experience in the field of mental health, including forensic psychiatry. I have experience working with a variety of psychiatric conditions and helping patients navigate their mental health journey. I’m passionate about providing compassionate care and support to those struggling with mental health issues. I have witnessed first-hand the inadequacies in the system, from lack of resources and funding to stigma and discrimination against those struggling with mental illness. I have a passion for helping individuals overcome their struggles and achieve optimal well-being.
(646) 916-5475 View (646) 916-5475
Photo of Mohsin S Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Mohsin S Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
Are you seeking a caring and compassionate provider who is attentive to your various dimensions: emotional, biological, cultural, and spiritual? Mohsin Ahmed, MD, PhD is a Columbia, Cambridge, and Cornell University educated and trained psychiatrist and neuroscientist who uniquely tailors an integrative approach for each individual. He is an expert in supportive, psychodynamic, and medication therapies and draws on the latest medical, neuroscientific, and holistic advances. He specializes in treatments for ADHD, mood/anxiety, memory and concentration issues, and difficulties with work, relationship, and cultural identity stressors.
Are you seeking a caring and compassionate provider who is attentive to your various dimensions: emotional, biological, cultural, and spiritual? Mohsin Ahmed, MD, PhD is a Columbia, Cambridge, and Cornell University educated and trained psychiatrist and neuroscientist who uniquely tailors an integrative approach for each individual. He is an expert in supportive, psychodynamic, and medication therapies and draws on the latest medical, neuroscientific, and holistic advances. He specializes in treatments for ADHD, mood/anxiety, memory and concentration issues, and difficulties with work, relationship, and cultural identity stressors.
(646) 679-2836 View (646) 679-2836
Photo of Dr. Joseph Belloir - Dr. Joe Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNP
Dr. Joe Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As an board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with years of experience treating clients of diverse backgrounds in multiple settings, including partial hospitalization programs, inpatient units, homeless shelters, and private practice, I have come to truly value the uniqueness of the human condition and tailor my treatment plans accordingly to reflect the needs of my clients using evidence-based treatment strategies to promote the recovery and healing process. I offer comprehensive and individualized care in a warm, safe, interactive environment and believe in treating the whole person - mind, body, and spirit.
As an board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with years of experience treating clients of diverse backgrounds in multiple settings, including partial hospitalization programs, inpatient units, homeless shelters, and private practice, I have come to truly value the uniqueness of the human condition and tailor my treatment plans accordingly to reflect the needs of my clients using evidence-based treatment strategies to promote the recovery and healing process. I offer comprehensive and individualized care in a warm, safe, interactive environment and believe in treating the whole person - mind, body, and spirit.
(347) 752-4880 View (347) 752-4880
Photo of Tammy Owens, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN, RN, NP
Tammy Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN, RN, NP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Tammy Owens is a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry for all age groups, including ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, and Insomnia. A U.S. Navy veteran, she earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Genesee Community College, a Baccalaureate in Nursing from Chamberlain University, and a Master’s and Doctorate in Psychiatry from D'Youville University and Chamberlain University, respectively. With 19 years of diverse medical experience, Tammy has also authored a children’s book and actively volunteers to promote mental health awareness.
Tammy Owens is a Board-Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry for all age groups, including ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, and Insomnia. A U.S. Navy veteran, she earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Genesee Community College, a Baccalaureate in Nursing from Chamberlain University, and a Master’s and Doctorate in Psychiatry from D'Youville University and Chamberlain University, respectively. With 19 years of diverse medical experience, Tammy has also authored a children’s book and actively volunteers to promote mental health awareness.
(646) 798-5861 View (646) 798-5861
Photo of Dr. Justin Rossi, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Dr. Justin Rossi
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified pediatric and adult psychiatrist trained at Columbia, Cornell, and UCSF and educated at Harvard and the University of Florida. I offer medication management and psychotherapy to treat a range of mental-health concerns, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My goal is to provide care that is holistic, personalized, and informed by the most up-to-date clinical research. My background as a PhD-level neuroscientist helps me incorporate the most current scientific evidence into your treatment. I am licensed in New York, Florida, and California.
I am a board-certified pediatric and adult psychiatrist trained at Columbia, Cornell, and UCSF and educated at Harvard and the University of Florida. I offer medication management and psychotherapy to treat a range of mental-health concerns, including ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My goal is to provide care that is holistic, personalized, and informed by the most up-to-date clinical research. My background as a PhD-level neuroscientist helps me incorporate the most current scientific evidence into your treatment. I am licensed in New York, Florida, and California.
View
Photo of Mary Mazgaj, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mary Mazgaj
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I utilize a patient-centered approach with an emphasis on collaborative, mutually respectful patient-provider relationships. I follow The Perspective Approach to psychiatry, recognizing that mental illness is not linear, but dimensional. I strive to provide a warm and compassionate environment where her patients feel heard, validated and respected. I always aim to provide top notch psychiatric care and guide my clients toward a rewarding life that is not defined by their mental illnesses. I am a dually certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with thirteen years of unique clinical experience.
I utilize a patient-centered approach with an emphasis on collaborative, mutually respectful patient-provider relationships. I follow The Perspective Approach to psychiatry, recognizing that mental illness is not linear, but dimensional. I strive to provide a warm and compassionate environment where her patients feel heard, validated and respected. I always aim to provide top notch psychiatric care and guide my clients toward a rewarding life that is not defined by their mental illnesses. I am a dually certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with thirteen years of unique clinical experience.
(646) 906-8545 View (646) 906-8545
Photo of Edward Fruitman - Trifecta Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Trifecta Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10006
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is committed to a scientific and innovative approach to mental health treatment. I believe in a treatment approach based on each individual and consider delivering compassionate and comprehensive care a priority. Depending on the needs of each patient, I dedicate as much time as needed for optimal treatment, but strive to achieve targeted results with least imposition on patients' valuable time.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist who is committed to a scientific and innovative approach to mental health treatment. I believe in a treatment approach based on each individual and consider delivering compassionate and comprehensive care a priority. Depending on the needs of each patient, I dedicate as much time as needed for optimal treatment, but strive to achieve targeted results with least imposition on patients' valuable time.
(646) 480-7124 View (646) 480-7124
Photo of Dr. Lesha D Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lesha D Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10174
I am a psychiatrist with over a decade of experience with children, adolescents and adults, and am dually board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I provide comprehensive evaluation and diagnostic assessment as well as ongoing treatment utilizing evidence-based modalities including medication management and psychotherapy. I am committed to collaborative development of treatment plans tailored to your personal goals. I am available for remote and on-site appointments with evening and weekend availability.
I am a psychiatrist with over a decade of experience with children, adolescents and adults, and am dually board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I provide comprehensive evaluation and diagnostic assessment as well as ongoing treatment utilizing evidence-based modalities including medication management and psychotherapy. I am committed to collaborative development of treatment plans tailored to your personal goals. I am available for remote and on-site appointments with evening and weekend availability.
(929) 470-1513 View (929) 470-1513
Photo of Dr. Jon Deam, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jon Deam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Jon, founder of Aveo Wellness, a concierge psychiatry practice, knows all about helping you face challenges and life transitions with medication optimization, therapy, life-coaching, and addiction/overuse management.
Dr. Jon, founder of Aveo Wellness, a concierge psychiatry practice, knows all about helping you face challenges and life transitions with medication optimization, therapy, life-coaching, and addiction/overuse management.
(646) 718-4913 View (646) 718-4913
Photo of Paula F Eagle, Psychiatrist, MD
Paula F Eagle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
If you are anxious and depressed despite trying different medications and treatments and, you can't seem to get the relief you need, and if you still don't connect in relationships, and can't find satisfaction in your accomplishments, or engage in self-destructive behavior, then I am the person to contact. I have traditional training in psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, but I also use hypnosis, EMDR, and other innovative forms of treatment. I believe that communication is the key to effective treatment and that our teamwork is essential to the development of trust and empathy necessary in developing healthy relationships..
If you are anxious and depressed despite trying different medications and treatments and, you can't seem to get the relief you need, and if you still don't connect in relationships, and can't find satisfaction in your accomplishments, or engage in self-destructive behavior, then I am the person to contact. I have traditional training in psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, but I also use hypnosis, EMDR, and other innovative forms of treatment. I believe that communication is the key to effective treatment and that our teamwork is essential to the development of trust and empathy necessary in developing healthy relationships..
(212) 448-0248 View (212) 448-0248
Photo of Tiziano Colibazzi, Psychiatrist, MD
Tiziano Colibazzi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
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 Anton Marcus Dragonetti, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anton Marcus Dragonetti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe in using evidence-based practice and treatment modalities.I strive to look at each individual holistically and focus on holistic treatment which includes: medication management, nutrition, exercise and sleep hygiene practices. I listen to the individual’s needs and consider myself part of a team when working with clients. I believe in using supportive, solution focused, CBT and DBT therapy along with medication management to treat mental health conditions. Services available in NY,AZ,FL. Have availability within 1-3 business days. Now taking NY Medicaid.
I believe in using evidence-based practice and treatment modalities.I strive to look at each individual holistically and focus on holistic treatment which includes: medication management, nutrition, exercise and sleep hygiene practices. I listen to the individual’s needs and consider myself part of a team when working with clients. I believe in using supportive, solution focused, CBT and DBT therapy along with medication management to treat mental health conditions. Services available in NY,AZ,FL. Have availability within 1-3 business days. Now taking NY Medicaid.
(347) 983-6645 View (347) 983-6645
Photo of Roberta De Oliveira, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Roberta De Oliveira
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10168
Are you pregnant but not feeling the bliss you hoped your gestation would bring? Or you may have already given birth, but find yourself unable to connect with your baby? You might have already sought out help. However, if the help you received did not provide what you needed, it might be time to meet a subspecialist in perinatal mental health for a consultation. I am a triple-boarded psychiatrist with subspecialization in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I supervise advanced psychiatry trainees in working with families at NYU. Prior to that, I was an assistant professor at Columbia University.
Are you pregnant but not feeling the bliss you hoped your gestation would bring? Or you may have already given birth, but find yourself unable to connect with your baby? You might have already sought out help. However, if the help you received did not provide what you needed, it might be time to meet a subspecialist in perinatal mental health for a consultation. I am a triple-boarded psychiatrist with subspecialization in Consult-Liaison Psychiatry as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I supervise advanced psychiatry trainees in working with families at NYU. Prior to that, I was an assistant professor at Columbia University.
(929) 577-2716 View (929) 577-2716
Photo of Nisba Husain, Psychiatrist, MD
Nisba Husain
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I am a psychiatrist, specializing in psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the New Presbyterian Hospital combined program of Columbia and Cornell Universities and Adult Psychiatry at Saint Vincent Hospital. During my training, I held a number of leadership positions and was honored with the Edward J. Sachar award for compassion and excellence in Psychiatry by the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons.
I am a psychiatrist, specializing in psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I trained in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the New Presbyterian Hospital combined program of Columbia and Cornell Universities and Adult Psychiatry at Saint Vincent Hospital. During my training, I held a number of leadership positions and was honored with the Edward J. Sachar award for compassion and excellence in Psychiatry by the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons.
(347) 308-9180 View (347) 308-9180
Photo of Latiema Merilus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Latiema Merilus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner serving the New York and Brooklyn, NY communities. I have experience in helping patients facing hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and more. At present, I offers virtual consultations at Orenda Psychiatry. I ensure a comfortable and non-judgmental environment to help my patients express themselves freely. I understand everyone’s unique situation and prepare individualized treatment plans. I also conducts psychiatry follow-ups to monitor progress and modify or change the care plan if needed.
I am an adult psychiatric & mental health nurse practitioner serving the New York and Brooklyn, NY communities. I have experience in helping patients facing hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and more. At present, I offers virtual consultations at Orenda Psychiatry. I ensure a comfortable and non-judgmental environment to help my patients express themselves freely. I understand everyone’s unique situation and prepare individualized treatment plans. I also conducts psychiatry follow-ups to monitor progress and modify or change the care plan if needed.
(646) 760-6101 View (646) 760-6101
Photo of Dr. Javier Aget-Torres, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Javier Aget-Torres
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018
Seeking treatment is a difficult decision to make and for that I am here to congratulate you on the courage and strength it took to embark on your journey of healing and wellness. Regardless of the difficulties you are experiencing, together we will engage in a mutual collaboration to explore your treatment goals and build insight and awareness into your inner self. At times, the mind can become our greatest enemy with thoughts that can be hard to share with others. However, do not fear, as my role is to create a safe and trusting therapeutic space, where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are non-judgmentally explored.
Seeking treatment is a difficult decision to make and for that I am here to congratulate you on the courage and strength it took to embark on your journey of healing and wellness. Regardless of the difficulties you are experiencing, together we will engage in a mutual collaboration to explore your treatment goals and build insight and awareness into your inner self. At times, the mind can become our greatest enemy with thoughts that can be hard to share with others. However, do not fear, as my role is to create a safe and trusting therapeutic space, where thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are non-judgmentally explored.
View
Photo of Trina Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Trina Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Trina and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Chronic illness, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, Insomnia & sleep issues and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 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 Trina and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Chronic illness, Depression, Bipolar, ADHD, Insomnia & sleep issues and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 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) 447-0641 View (929) 447-0641
Photo of Edward Malecki, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Edward Malecki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
MANY INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED Edward Malecki MS, MHC, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is skilled in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy across the lifespan. Mr. Malecki completed his Bachelor of Science in Psychology as well as his advanced practice nursing degree at Stony Brook University. He also received his Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and has a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Adelphi University. He is currently working at Modern Integrative Psychiatry in NYC.
MANY INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED Edward Malecki MS, MHC, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He is skilled in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy across the lifespan. Mr. Malecki completed his Bachelor of Science in Psychology as well as his advanced practice nursing degree at Stony Brook University. He also received his Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and has a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Adelphi University. He is currently working at Modern Integrative Psychiatry in NYC.
(646) 960-3385 View (646) 960-3385
1
...

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.

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.