Psychiatrists in New York, NY

Photo of Izehi Eromosele Pmhnp-Bc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Izehi Eromosele Pmhnp-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I am current accepting clients from New York, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington state and New Mexico. I specialize in Anxiety and depression, OCD, PTSD ,ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders. Do you have trouble organizing and staying focused. Ever question whether what you're feeling is normal? Do you need help with forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or getting easily distracted? Does getting out of bed in the morning feel challenging, and you've lost the motivation to engage in life, sometimes feeling sad without an apparent reason? We prioritize your mental health. we prioritize you! contact us today.
I am current accepting clients from New York, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington state and New Mexico. I specialize in Anxiety and depression, OCD, PTSD ,ADHD/ADD, Bipolar disorders. Do you have trouble organizing and staying focused. Ever question whether what you're feeling is normal? Do you need help with forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or getting easily distracted? Does getting out of bed in the morning feel challenging, and you've lost the motivation to engage in life, sometimes feeling sad without an apparent reason? We prioritize your mental health. we prioritize you! contact us today.
(646) 759-1519 View (646) 759-1519
Photo of Grace Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Grace Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 2 decades of experience working in diverse psychiatric settings with diverse populations. I specialize in ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and relationship issues. I believe in assessing the whole person. My journey as a psychiatric practitioner has equipped me with a deep understanding of how, in many cases, mental health conditions are related to environmental, physical or spiritual issues. I focus on effective, evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of conditions.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 2 decades of experience working in diverse psychiatric settings with diverse populations. I specialize in ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, low self-esteem and relationship issues. I believe in assessing the whole person. My journey as a psychiatric practitioner has equipped me with a deep understanding of how, in many cases, mental health conditions are related to environmental, physical or spiritual issues. I focus on effective, evidence-based treatments for a wide spectrum of conditions.
(646) 437-8671 View (646) 437-8671
Photo of Caroline Geelan, Psychiatrist, DO
Caroline Geelan
Psychiatrist, DO
New York, NY 10010
I am a double board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the medication management of mental health conditions in adults, adolescents and children, namely mood related disorders, anxiety disorders and symptoms stemming from trauma, family conflicts and relationship stressors. Additionally, I also treat childhood ADHD and behavioral problems in children and adolescents, and will work alongside a patient's therapist, family members and school contacts to ensure a patient's symptoms are being targeted and treated appropriately.
I am a double board certified psychiatrist who specializes in the medication management of mental health conditions in adults, adolescents and children, namely mood related disorders, anxiety disorders and symptoms stemming from trauma, family conflicts and relationship stressors. Additionally, I also treat childhood ADHD and behavioral problems in children and adolescents, and will work alongside a patient's therapist, family members and school contacts to ensure a patient's symptoms are being targeted and treated appropriately.
(332) 877-9832 View (332) 877-9832
Photo of Dr. Michael Nakhla, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Michael Nakhla
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am the Associate Director of Psychiatry at the NYU Counseling & Wellness Center and Clinical Assistant Professor at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. My practice is anchored in an individualized treatment approach for each of my patients. This includes psychotherapy, lifestyle interventions, and when indicated, medication management, for the treatment of a broad range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, work stress, low self-esteem, and relationship/familial challenges. My goal is to create a collaborative space where folks can gain insight, build resilience, and make meaningful change in their lives.
I am the Associate Director of Psychiatry at the NYU Counseling & Wellness Center and Clinical Assistant Professor at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. My practice is anchored in an individualized treatment approach for each of my patients. This includes psychotherapy, lifestyle interventions, and when indicated, medication management, for the treatment of a broad range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, work stress, low self-esteem, and relationship/familial challenges. My goal is to create a collaborative space where folks can gain insight, build resilience, and make meaningful change in their lives.
(929) 499-0712 View (929) 499-0712
Photo of Luis H Ripoll, Psychiatrist, MD
Luis H Ripoll
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10016
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, affiliated with Icahn School of Medicine and New York Psychoanalytic Institute. I treat people who feel stuck, either because of paralyzing anxiety, depression, or some other inexplicable emotional symptom. Others feel stuck in a particular way of relating to others, a specific view of themselves, compelling or distressing fantasies, or due to past traumatic experiences. I aim to provide individualized treatment to target a variety of difficulties in managing emotions, identity, and interpersonal functioning. When necessary, I also prescribe medication to optimize treatment.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, affiliated with Icahn School of Medicine and New York Psychoanalytic Institute. I treat people who feel stuck, either because of paralyzing anxiety, depression, or some other inexplicable emotional symptom. Others feel stuck in a particular way of relating to others, a specific view of themselves, compelling or distressing fantasies, or due to past traumatic experiences. I aim to provide individualized treatment to target a variety of difficulties in managing emotions, identity, and interpersonal functioning. When necessary, I also prescribe medication to optimize treatment.
(917) 267-0731 View (917) 267-0731
Photo of Xenia Protopopescu, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Xenia Protopopescu
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
New York, NY 10016
I am a Yale-educated, Cornell- and Columbia-trained psychiatrist (MD) with a PhD in neuroscience, providing customized treatment based on individual needs. I am committed to improving the wellness of my patients through a flexible and responsive approach. I specialize in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mood, and personality disorders. I am well versed in CBT, IPT, DBT, and psychodynamic psychotherapy (insight-oriented psychotherapy). I'm board certified (ABPN) in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. I believe that effective treatment requires getting to know patients as individuals.
I am a Yale-educated, Cornell- and Columbia-trained psychiatrist (MD) with a PhD in neuroscience, providing customized treatment based on individual needs. I am committed to improving the wellness of my patients through a flexible and responsive approach. I specialize in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology for anxiety, OCD, ADHD, mood, and personality disorders. I am well versed in CBT, IPT, DBT, and psychodynamic psychotherapy (insight-oriented psychotherapy). I'm board certified (ABPN) in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. I believe that effective treatment requires getting to know patients as individuals.
(646) 600-9012 View (646) 600-9012
Photo of Chika N Odili, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Chika N Odili
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Dear future patients, my name is Chika Odili and I'm a board-certified nurse practitioner. I know we haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. I started my career doing an internship at a prestigious children’s hospital in the Texas Medical Center on an adolescent GI unit where I was able to work with individuals with eating related disorders. I then went on to complete my Bachelors in Nursing Degree and began working as a Registered Nurse in a Pediatric Unit caring for the psychiatric population.
Dear future patients, my name is Chika Odili and I'm a board-certified nurse practitioner. I know we haven’t met yet, but when we do, please trust that you are in good hands. It is my absolute pleasure to assist in your care. I started my career doing an internship at a prestigious children’s hospital in the Texas Medical Center on an adolescent GI unit where I was able to work with individuals with eating related disorders. I then went on to complete my Bachelors in Nursing Degree and began working as a Registered Nurse in a Pediatric Unit caring for the psychiatric population.
(929) 244-4425 View (929) 244-4425
Photo of Heather C Kaufman, Psychiatrist, MD
Heather C Kaufman
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10016
Dr. Kaufman is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in adult psychiatry. Dr. Kaufman specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety and mood disorders in motivated people who have not experienced the relief they expected from therapy alone or from their current medication regimen. In addition, Dr. Kaufman has significant expertise in the pharmacologic management of OCD, ADHD, and undergraduate and graduate student mental health. She enjoys spending the time to carefully listen and to understand her patients so she can build the foundation to finding better mental health, function, and fulfillment.
Dr. Kaufman is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in adult psychiatry. Dr. Kaufman specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety and mood disorders in motivated people who have not experienced the relief they expected from therapy alone or from their current medication regimen. In addition, Dr. Kaufman has significant expertise in the pharmacologic management of OCD, ADHD, and undergraduate and graduate student mental health. She enjoys spending the time to carefully listen and to understand her patients so she can build the foundation to finding better mental health, function, and fulfillment.
(929) 693-5620 View (929) 693-5620
Photo of Marianne Chai, Psychiatrist, MD
Marianne Chai
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Navigating the numerous stressors, transitions, and complex challenges of modern life can feel overwhelming. As a triple Board-Certified Psychiatrist in Adult, Child & Adolescent, and Addiction Psychiatry, I draw upon evidence-based psychiatry with holistic and lifestyle medicine for growth and health through these times. I teach about Integrative Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders at NYU and provide supervision and training to other clinicians.
Navigating the numerous stressors, transitions, and complex challenges of modern life can feel overwhelming. As a triple Board-Certified Psychiatrist in Adult, Child & Adolescent, and Addiction Psychiatry, I draw upon evidence-based psychiatry with holistic and lifestyle medicine for growth and health through these times. I teach about Integrative Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders at NYU and provide supervision and training to other clinicians.
(929) 723-3694 View (929) 723-3694
Photo of Rachna Kenia, Psychiatrist, MD
Rachna Kenia
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Dr. Kenia is a board certified and licensed Psychiatrist and Psychoanalyst who believes in a holistic approach. She takes time to get to know each person so she can provide thoughtful and individualized treatment. She is trained in both medication management and talk therapy to treat a variety of adult disorders. As former Medical Director of the Center for Intensive Treatment of Personality Disorders she has the unique background and experience required to help those with a diagnosis of personality disorder and/or histories of trauma.
Dr. Kenia is a board certified and licensed Psychiatrist and Psychoanalyst who believes in a holistic approach. She takes time to get to know each person so she can provide thoughtful and individualized treatment. She is trained in both medication management and talk therapy to treat a variety of adult disorders. As former Medical Director of the Center for Intensive Treatment of Personality Disorders she has the unique background and experience required to help those with a diagnosis of personality disorder and/or histories of trauma.
(914) 506-5951 View (914) 506-5951
Photo of Marie-Lourdes Jean-Francois, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Marie-Lourdes Jean-Francois
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide compassionate, patient-centered mental health care that honors your unique story and experience. My approach is open-minded, nonjudgmental, and grounded in respect for who you are and where you are in your journey.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide compassionate, patient-centered mental health care that honors your unique story and experience. My approach is open-minded, nonjudgmental, and grounded in respect for who you are and where you are in your journey.
(646) 718-5704 View (646) 718-5704
Photo of Abbey Simmermacher, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Abbey Simmermacher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
New York, NY 10001
Accepting New Patients (updated July 2024). Prior to becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I spent nearly a decade in the corporate world - working in both finance (Goldman Sachs) and marketing (at a small start-up). These experiences help me better understand many of the pressures my patients face in their work-life.
Accepting New Patients (updated July 2024). Prior to becoming a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I spent nearly a decade in the corporate world - working in both finance (Goldman Sachs) and marketing (at a small start-up). These experiences help me better understand many of the pressures my patients face in their work-life.
(646) 916-3732 View (646) 916-3732
Photo of Dr. Sonal Harneja, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sonal Harneja
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Sonal Harneja is board-certified in adult psychiatry and specializes in medication management and various psychotherapies to treat anxiety and depressive disorders. Dr. Harneja completed her undergraduate studies at Stony Brook University and received her medical degree from the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (now called Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences). She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Dr. Sonal Harneja is board-certified in adult psychiatry and specializes in medication management and various psychotherapies to treat anxiety and depressive disorders. Dr. Harneja completed her undergraduate studies at Stony Brook University and received her medical degree from the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (now called Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences). She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
(646) 630-7646 View (646) 630-7646
Photo of Justin Benjamin Steinfeld, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Justin Benjamin Steinfeld
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
New York, NY 10024
I’m a Columbia-trained psychiatrist who provides therapy and medication management for adults, adolescents, and children with a wide range of mental health difficulties including depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, autism, and ADHD. Combining evidenced-based psychopharmacology with developmentally-informed psychodynamic and behavioral psychotherapy, I will work with you in addressing difficulties with stress, life transitions, and relationship difficulties using a warm, compassionate, and individualized approach.
I’m a Columbia-trained psychiatrist who provides therapy and medication management for adults, adolescents, and children with a wide range of mental health difficulties including depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, anxiety, autism, and ADHD. Combining evidenced-based psychopharmacology with developmentally-informed psychodynamic and behavioral psychotherapy, I will work with you in addressing difficulties with stress, life transitions, and relationship difficulties using a warm, compassionate, and individualized approach.
(347) 625-5378 View (347) 625-5378
Photo of Anne Mongiello, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Anne Mongiello
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
New York, NY 10011
Anne Mongiello uses her empathetic and evidence-based approach as a guide through the complexities of various psychiatric challenges, including panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD), and bipolar disorder. She extends her expertise through virtual consultations, welcoming patients from New York State. She is committed to providing accessible and personalized care for her patients and dedicated to helping them navigate their mental health journeys with expertise and tailored support. Her focus spans a spectrum of concerns, such as anxiety, depression panic attack, etc.
Anne Mongiello uses her empathetic and evidence-based approach as a guide through the complexities of various psychiatric challenges, including panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD), and bipolar disorder. She extends her expertise through virtual consultations, welcoming patients from New York State. She is committed to providing accessible and personalized care for her patients and dedicated to helping them navigate their mental health journeys with expertise and tailored support. Her focus spans a spectrum of concerns, such as anxiety, depression panic attack, etc.
(718) 550-5669 View (718) 550-5669
Photo of Cheryl Henrietta Cottrol - Affiliate Neurology & Psychiatry-All Brain MD, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Struggling with Memory, Headaches, Anxiety, Depression or PTSD? You deserve a comprehensive evaluation and personalized care. At Affiliates of Neurology & Psychiatry—All Brain MD, we offer cutting edge diagnostic tools and advanced therapeutic options to support your mental and emotional well being. From the latest brain imaging technology to tailored psychotherapy that addresses your unique needs, we are committed to helping you invest in your health.
Struggling with Memory, Headaches, Anxiety, Depression or PTSD? You deserve a comprehensive evaluation and personalized care. At Affiliates of Neurology & Psychiatry—All Brain MD, we offer cutting edge diagnostic tools and advanced therapeutic options to support your mental and emotional well being. From the latest brain imaging technology to tailored psychotherapy that addresses your unique needs, we are committed to helping you invest in your health.
(833) 339-0508 View (833) 339-0508
Photo of Dr. Georgia Gaveras, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Georgia Gaveras
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
Dr. Gaveras holds the position of Chief Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is board certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry as well as in addiction medicine and has been practicing for over 17 years. In addition to general and child and adolescent psychiatry, Dr. Gaveras is also board certified in addiction medicine and trained in the Eating Disorders, Compulsions and Addictions Service (EDCAS) at the William Alanson White Institute. While having treated a wide variety of patients, her primary clinical focus has been in the treatment of adolescents and young adults with co-occuring substance use disorders.
Dr. Gaveras holds the position of Chief Psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She is board certified in child, adolescent and adult psychiatry as well as in addiction medicine and has been practicing for over 17 years. In addition to general and child and adolescent psychiatry, Dr. Gaveras is also board certified in addiction medicine and trained in the Eating Disorders, Compulsions and Addictions Service (EDCAS) at the William Alanson White Institute. While having treated a wide variety of patients, her primary clinical focus has been in the treatment of adolescents and young adults with co-occuring substance use disorders.
(646) 859-5327 View (646) 859-5327
Photo of Manisha Punwani, Psychiatrist, MD
Manisha Punwani
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10016
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Adult and Child Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of all my patients and specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
Finding a Board Certified Integrative Adult and Child Psychiatrist, one who approaches treatment from an evidence based clinical, holistic, developmental and systems based (family, school, etc) perspective is challenging. I am committed to improving lives of all my patients and specialize in Autism, Anxiety and OCD disorders. I treat these through Cognitive Behavioral, Exposure Response Prevention, Family or Parent Behavioral Management therapies with or without psychotropic medications. I incorporate mindfulness, psychoeducation, sensory and complimentary interventions as appropriate.
(646) 693-3583 View (646) 693-3583
Photo of Quilvio Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Quilvio Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(914) 340-2126 View (914) 340-2126
Photo of Dr. Zebib K. Abraham, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Zebib K. Abraham
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10024
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. I completed my medical training at Weill Cornell Medical College, and my psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I received additional training in psychodynamic therapy at the New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. I have a wide range of experience in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as personality and trauma-related disorders. My website is zebibkabrahammd . com.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in Adult Psychiatry. I completed my medical training at Weill Cornell Medical College, and my psychiatry residency training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I received additional training in psychodynamic therapy at the New York Psychoanalytic Society & Institute. I have a wide range of experience in depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, as well as personality and trauma-related disorders. My website is zebibkabrahammd . com.
View

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% Trauma and PTSD
71% Bipolar Disorder
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.