Psychiatrists in North Tonawanda, NY
Claire Yaple
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Tonawanda, NY 14120
Claire Yaple is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She treats patients aged 14-years-old and up using a patient centered approach. She offers in-person and telehealth appointments. Claire assesses, diagnoses and provides medication management for psychiatric disorders including ADHD, bipolar mood disorder, PTSD, depression and anxiety. She also orders diagnostic tests if needed, to rule out health disorders that may be contributing to patient's symptoms.
Claire Yaple is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She treats patients aged 14-years-old and up using a patient centered approach. She offers in-person and telehealth appointments. Claire assesses, diagnoses and provides medication management for psychiatric disorders including ADHD, bipolar mood disorder, PTSD, depression and anxiety. She also orders diagnostic tests if needed, to rule out health disorders that may be contributing to patient's symptoms.
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Resilient Psychiatry New York
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsville, NY 14221
Maureen Conway, PMHNP was raised in Upstate New York and later graduated from Vanderbilt University. She provides Evaluation, Diagnosis and Treatment in general Psychiatry. She prescribes Mental Health medications for Psychiatric conditions, including: Depression and Mood symptoms (including Bipolar) , ADHD/ADD, PTSD symptoms, Panic and anxiety (including OCD), Insomnia, amongst others. She has owned her independent private practice in Portland, Oregon for over 20 years. She provides in-person for Initial intake at her offices in Williamsville, NY and Buffalo, NY followed by in-person or telemedicine sessions for follow-up
Maureen Conway, PMHNP was raised in Upstate New York and later graduated from Vanderbilt University. She provides Evaluation, Diagnosis and Treatment in general Psychiatry. She prescribes Mental Health medications for Psychiatric conditions, including: Depression and Mood symptoms (including Bipolar) , ADHD/ADD, PTSD symptoms, Panic and anxiety (including OCD), Insomnia, amongst others. She has owned her independent private practice in Portland, Oregon for over 20 years. She provides in-person for Initial intake at her offices in Williamsville, NY and Buffalo, NY followed by in-person or telemedicine sessions for follow-up
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Dr. Phan-Huy's philosophy of care is all about you. Your beliefs, your experiences, your goals. By partnering with Dr. Phan-Huy, you will be empowered with the tools necessary to achieve fulfilment. That’s because – with Board certification in psychiatry and specialty training from the University of Michigan – Dr. Phan-Huy is a beacon of clarity in the complex world of mental health.
Lisa Rivera Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Williamsville, NY 14221
I understand that each individuals mental health is distinct, and I will take the time to assess your specific concerns. Your treatment plan, will be tailored to your needs, and goals to achieve your mental wellness.
I understand that each individuals mental health is distinct, and I will take the time to assess your specific concerns. Your treatment plan, will be tailored to your needs, and goals to achieve your mental wellness.
Corinna Marie Donner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niagara Falls, NY 14304
Corinna Donner is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with clinical experience treating individuals aged four years and older struggling with mental health diagnoses. Corinna believes in the importance of person-centered care, which includes individuality, rights, privacy, choice, independence, dignity, respect, and partnership. While serving in the military for twelve years, she witnessed fellow service members and their families struggling with mental health and not feeling comfortable seeking treatment. Corinna Donner is here to offer safe, understanding and culturally diverse space to seek treatment.
Corinna Donner is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, with clinical experience treating individuals aged four years and older struggling with mental health diagnoses. Corinna believes in the importance of person-centered care, which includes individuality, rights, privacy, choice, independence, dignity, respect, and partnership. While serving in the military for twelve years, she witnessed fellow service members and their families struggling with mental health and not feeling comfortable seeking treatment. Corinna Donner is here to offer safe, understanding and culturally diverse space to seek treatment.
Are you on psychiatric medications and feel that they are not working for you? Have you thought you might need to go on medication but are scared of the side effects or how they will make you feel? Have you frequently been engulfed in overwhelming depression, yet occasionally find yourself unexpectedly elated? Do you ever feel crippled by anxiety. Do you want to take care of your mental health in natural ways but don't know how If these things resonate, you may be in the right place. I specialize in Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Women's Mental Health and Vegan Mental Health through Holistic Medicine Practice.
Are you on psychiatric medications and feel that they are not working for you? Have you thought you might need to go on medication but are scared of the side effects or how they will make you feel? Have you frequently been engulfed in overwhelming depression, yet occasionally find yourself unexpectedly elated? Do you ever feel crippled by anxiety. Do you want to take care of your mental health in natural ways but don't know how If these things resonate, you may be in the right place. I specialize in Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Women's Mental Health and Vegan Mental Health through Holistic Medicine Practice.
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209 (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Cynthia Miller is a well-rounded Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides exceptional care. Her passion for the mental health field began while serving eleven years as a medic in the military. She has a unique prospective on providing care as she has both experienced and observed fellow service members overcome their struggle with mental health following her return from two separate tours of duty in Afghanistan. Throughout her military career she earned several distinguished awards for her exceptional performance. Following her military career she worked at an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she gained vital knowledge.
Cynthia Miller is a well-rounded Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides exceptional care. Her passion for the mental health field began while serving eleven years as a medic in the military. She has a unique prospective on providing care as she has both experienced and observed fellow service members overcome their struggle with mental health following her return from two separate tours of duty in Afghanistan. Throughout her military career she earned several distinguished awards for her exceptional performance. Following her military career she worked at an inpatient psychiatric hospital where she gained vital knowledge.
Michael Victor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14217 (Online Only)
I believe mental wellness should be viewed no differently than physical wellness! The same time, effort, and dedication invested in taking care of your body should also be applied to your mental well-being. Together, we will assess and diagnose your mental health concerns and identify evidence-based treatments — including behavioral interventions and medication management. I believe in maintaining a "lowest and fewest" approach — or the lowest dose and fewest number of medications to address your areas of concern.
I believe mental wellness should be viewed no differently than physical wellness! The same time, effort, and dedication invested in taking care of your body should also be applied to your mental well-being. Together, we will assess and diagnose your mental health concerns and identify evidence-based treatments — including behavioral interventions and medication management. I believe in maintaining a "lowest and fewest" approach — or the lowest dose and fewest number of medications to address your areas of concern.
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.
Claudine Sapini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Williamsville, NY 14221
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.
We all walk a different path, but human emotion is universal. Sometimes our emotions become overwhelming and we feel buried by them, paralyzed. I know this because I've been down those roads and I've come out the other side. My formal training makes me qualified to provide treatment, but my life experiences make me capable of providing care. As a member of the LGBTQ community, nonjudgement is my top priority. I offer a genuinely safe space for ALL.
We all walk a different path, but human emotion is universal. Sometimes our emotions become overwhelming and we feel buried by them, paralyzed. I know this because I've been down those roads and I've come out the other side. My formal training makes me qualified to provide treatment, but my life experiences make me capable of providing care. As a member of the LGBTQ community, nonjudgement is my top priority. I offer a genuinely safe space for ALL.
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Getzville, NY 14068 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
Dina Fisher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Getzville, NY 14068
Waitlist for new clients
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and use a shared decision making model/ trauma informed care to provide evaluation, treatment and medication management. I have worked in the mental health field as a nurse/ counselor since 1988, and decided I wanted to further my career as an NP so went back to school in 2015 when my children were older. I have worked in many areas in psychiatry and feel that experience has only improved my practice to be more comprehensive and well rounded.
I am an experienced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and use a shared decision making model/ trauma informed care to provide evaluation, treatment and medication management. I have worked in the mental health field as a nurse/ counselor since 1988, and decided I wanted to further my career as an NP so went back to school in 2015 when my children were older. I have worked in many areas in psychiatry and feel that experience has only improved my practice to be more comprehensive and well rounded.
Carrie Kramer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14221 (Online Only)
My goal is to be a partner in your mental health journey. I want to learn about you, what is important to you, and work with you to help you become the best version of yourself. I am an advocate for the clients I treat and work with each individual to utilize their strengths as part of the healing process. I am not in charge of your treatment plan; each client is, and I am just here to provide the knowledge I have to help each client meet their individual goals. Mental health treatment is a long journey, but you will never regret taking that first step to improve your life.
My goal is to be a partner in your mental health journey. I want to learn about you, what is important to you, and work with you to help you become the best version of yourself. I am an advocate for the clients I treat and work with each individual to utilize their strengths as part of the healing process. I am not in charge of your treatment plan; each client is, and I am just here to provide the knowledge I have to help each client meet their individual goals. Mental health treatment is a long journey, but you will never regret taking that first step to improve your life.
Paul L. Fazekas, PhD, NP (ADHD-telepsychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14207
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Fazekas received his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and Master of Science as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is licensed in NY State both as a Clinical Psychologist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. These unique credentials provide him the ability to offer comprehensive ADHD services for adults including neuropsychiatric assessments and prescriptions & medication management.
Dr. Fazekas received his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and Master of Science as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He is licensed in NY State both as a Clinical Psychologist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. These unique credentials provide him the ability to offer comprehensive ADHD services for adults including neuropsychiatric assessments and prescriptions & medication management.
Martin Oviasogie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14226
Welcome to my practice! I’m a dedicated mental health professional specializing in, Mood Disorders, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, etc. With 5 years of experience, I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My approach is collaborative and personalized, integrating evidence-based techniques with compassion and empathy. I aim to empower you with tools and insights that can lead to meaningful change in your life.
Welcome to my practice! I’m a dedicated mental health professional specializing in, Mood Disorders, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, etc. With 5 years of experience, I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My approach is collaborative and personalized, integrating evidence-based techniques with compassion and empathy. I aim to empower you with tools and insights that can lead to meaningful change in your life.
Margaret (Meg) Montgomery
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, MS, BC
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14226
Hi there. My name is Meg and I am a board certified PMHNP based out of Buffalo, NY with telehealth services throughout NY State. Here are a few things I believe in: Finding joy within yourself, Eastern and Western medical philosophies, and Resilience and Adaptation.
Hi there. My name is Meg and I am a board certified PMHNP based out of Buffalo, NY with telehealth services throughout NY State. Here are a few things I believe in: Finding joy within yourself, Eastern and Western medical philosophies, and Resilience and Adaptation.
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Williamsville, NY 14221
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Currently serving individuals in NY, OH, WI via Telepsychiatric services. We believe the key to wellness is partnering with a physician who can ally themselves with the patient in order to empower and guide the individual to create positive change in their life. We strive to eliminate the obstacles many individuals face when making the decision to seek psychiatric care. Using videoconferencing you can be seen in your own home, ensuring privacy and expanding accessibility. We cater to busy professionals and offer non-traditional and expanded office hours for your convenience. To get started, visit: InfinityPsychiatry.org
Currently serving individuals in NY, OH, WI via Telepsychiatric services. We believe the key to wellness is partnering with a physician who can ally themselves with the patient in order to empower and guide the individual to create positive change in their life. We strive to eliminate the obstacles many individuals face when making the decision to seek psychiatric care. Using videoconferencing you can be seen in your own home, ensuring privacy and expanding accessibility. We cater to busy professionals and offer non-traditional and expanded office hours for your convenience. To get started, visit: InfinityPsychiatry.org
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Nearby Searches for North Tonawanda
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in North Tonawanda, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in North Tonawanda, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Chronic Pain |
100% | Infertility |
100% | Grief |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Medicare |
100% | Anthem |
How Psychiatrists in North Tonawanda, 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 North Tonawanda?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.