Psychiatrists in Niskayuna, NY

Photo of Nichole M. Orofino, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nichole M. Orofino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niskayuna, NY 12309
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
(518) 294-9480 View (518) 294-9480
Photo of Anita F. Lopes, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anita F. Lopes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niskayuna, NY 12309
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
(518) 896-8029 View (518) 896-8029
Photo of Vanesa Samos, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vanesa Samos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niskayuna, NY 12309
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
(518) 413-0907 View (518) 413-0907
Photo of Carrie I. Edick, RN, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carrie I. Edick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Niskayuna, NY 12309
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
(518) 975-2446 View (518) 975-2446
Photo of Jacquelyn Ransbury, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacquelyn Ransbury
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niskayuna, NY 12309
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
(518) 759-6218 View (518) 759-6218
Photo of Ashley M. Monroe, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley M. Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Niskayuna, NY 12309
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
(518) 757-0866 View (518) 757-0866
Photo of Amber L. Shutter, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amber L. Shutter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Niskayuna, NY 12309
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
Adult Patients Only - Luminous Psychiatric offers online & in-person availability. Please go to www.LuminousPsychiatric.com and select Request Appointment. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner affiliated with Luminous Psychiatric, a group of professionals dedicated to providing access to health and wellness solutions to those in need. We believe that while telehealth is making access to healthcare readily available, we only accept patients that can safely be treated remotely. Suitable mental and behavioral conditions for tele-healthcare are depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and certain mood disorders.
(518) 809-8171 View (518) 809-8171
Photo of Ceci Hayes, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ceci Hayes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Niskayuna, NY 12309
Ceci Hayes is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 25-years of experience as a registered nurse and over 18-years of experience in mental health. Her goals are to assist individuals achieve their personal and professional aspirations and aid in removing the stigma associated with mental illness. Ceci's approach includes medication management, psycho-educational learning, psychotherapy encompassing DBT, CBT, group and individual therapy. This holistic approach includes exploring biological, social, emotional, occupational, financial, environmental, intellectual, and spiritual factors.
Ceci Hayes is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 25-years of experience as a registered nurse and over 18-years of experience in mental health. Her goals are to assist individuals achieve their personal and professional aspirations and aid in removing the stigma associated with mental illness. Ceci's approach includes medication management, psycho-educational learning, psychotherapy encompassing DBT, CBT, group and individual therapy. This holistic approach includes exploring biological, social, emotional, occupational, financial, environmental, intellectual, and spiritual factors.
(518) 245-3288 View (518) 245-3288

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12203
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(518) 660-8194 View (518) 660-8194
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12203
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.
(518) 543-7637 View (518) 543-7637
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Telepsychiatry Upstate New York, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatry Upstate New York
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12207  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
(518) 519-8503 View (518) 519-8503
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12203
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(518) 520-1507 View (518) 520-1507
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Colonie, NY 12205  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(315) 618-2566 View (315) 618-2566
Photo of Stephen 'chris' Marshall, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephen 'chris' Marshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12303  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Chris and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, men's issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder, stress management loss & grief, as well as medication 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 Chris and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, men's issues, Seasonal Affective Disorder, stress management loss & grief, as well as medication 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.
(646) 759-9680 View (646) 759-9680
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12203
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(518) 299-5962 View (518) 299-5962
Photo of Dawn S Ayers, RN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn S Ayers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305  (Online Only)
Each individual seeking mental health services comes with a unique journey, belief system, body chemistry and goals for themselves. I am here to facilitate a therapeutic relationship that fosters mutual respect and a place to feel truly listened to in a nonjudgemental environment worthy of trust. My role is to be a guide and facilitate your path of discovery to increase self-awareness, identify maladaptive coping strategies and to assist in understanding how emotions are a source of communication.
Each individual seeking mental health services comes with a unique journey, belief system, body chemistry and goals for themselves. I am here to facilitate a therapeutic relationship that fosters mutual respect and a place to feel truly listened to in a nonjudgemental environment worthy of trust. My role is to be a guide and facilitate your path of discovery to increase self-awareness, identify maladaptive coping strategies and to assist in understanding how emotions are a source of communication.
(518) 662-1512 View (518) 662-1512
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12210
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
View
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12203
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(518) 240-9749 View (518) 240-9749
Photo of Susan Uyanna, MD, MPH, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Susan Uyanna
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12205
The innate desire to work with parents, and support them and their children is one the reasons for my passion for child/adolescent psychiatry. It is our mission at Unity Clinics to aid all children and adolescents struggling with emotional, and or behavioral concerns to overcome these challenges, and guide them and their families to a path of recovery, growth and success. When a child struggles, the whole family struggles, but there is support and guidance at Unity Clinics.
The innate desire to work with parents, and support them and their children is one the reasons for my passion for child/adolescent psychiatry. It is our mission at Unity Clinics to aid all children and adolescents struggling with emotional, and or behavioral concerns to overcome these challenges, and guide them and their families to a path of recovery, growth and success. When a child struggles, the whole family struggles, but there is support and guidance at Unity Clinics.
(518) 310-4644 View (518) 310-4644
Photo of Claudine Sapini, DPN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Claudine Sapini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12203
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
(518) 759-7144 View (518) 759-7144

See more therapy options for Niskayuna

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Niskayuna, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Niskayuna, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Psychosis

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Niskayuna, NY see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Niskayuna?

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.