Psychiatrists in Plainview, NY

Photo of Claudine Sapini, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Claudine Sapini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with a graduate degree from Molloy University.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with a graduate degree from Molloy University.
(516) 689-9653 View (516) 689-9653
Photo of Patricia R Janson - Patricia Janson, NP, PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN
Patricia Janson, NP, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, APRN
Plainview, NY 11803
Dr. Patricia Janson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Therapy. She has many years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families, and she has expertise in treating a broad range of emotional and behavioral problems.
Dr. Patricia Janson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Therapy. She has many years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families, and she has expertise in treating a broad range of emotional and behavioral problems.
(917) 960-8048 View (917) 960-8048
Photo of Mulchand Chugh, Psychiatrist, MD
Mulchand Chugh
Psychiatrist, MD
Plainview, NY 11803
I provide comprehensive psychiatric care for all ages. I strive to provide compassionate and personalized mental health services to individuals across the lifespan.
I provide comprehensive psychiatric care for all ages. I strive to provide compassionate and personalized mental health services to individuals across the lifespan.
(516) 973-3164 View (516) 973-3164
Photo of Farina Sial - Stay Ageless Health Clinic, Physician Assistant, RPA-C
Stay Ageless Health Clinic
Physician Assistant, RPA-C
Online Only
Farina Sial is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Neuroscience. Farina completed her undergraduate studies in Biochemistry from University of Missouri, Columbia, MO. She then earned her degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro College, NY. Furthermore, she enhanced her education by completing her MBA in Health Management from Hofstra University in Uniondale, NY. She is has a very keen interest & many years of medical experience in treating Neuro-Psych conditions which can affect day to day life, such as ADHD and Anxiety & Depression.
Farina Sial is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Neuroscience. Farina completed her undergraduate studies in Biochemistry from University of Missouri, Columbia, MO. She then earned her degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro College, NY. Furthermore, she enhanced her education by completing her MBA in Health Management from Hofstra University in Uniondale, NY. She is has a very keen interest & many years of medical experience in treating Neuro-Psych conditions which can affect day to day life, such as ADHD and Anxiety & Depression.
(516) 530-7746 View (516) 530-7746
Photo of Kyra Sposato - Kyra Sposato, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kyra Sposato, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Plainview, NY 11803
Do you ever think you are crazy for feeling the way you do? Are you afraid that nothing will ever change? Sometimes therapy alone is not enough. Genetics play a significant role in your mental health. And prolonged stress and suffering can change your brain chemistry. When prescribed wisely, medications can minimize the static caused by a chemical imbalance, thus improving your ability to think clearly and use therapy to make better decisions. Explore your options. You do not have to keep feeling the way you do.
Do you ever think you are crazy for feeling the way you do? Are you afraid that nothing will ever change? Sometimes therapy alone is not enough. Genetics play a significant role in your mental health. And prolonged stress and suffering can change your brain chemistry. When prescribed wisely, medications can minimize the static caused by a chemical imbalance, thus improving your ability to think clearly and use therapy to make better decisions. Explore your options. You do not have to keep feeling the way you do.
(516) 628-6086 View (516) 628-6086
Photo of Efraim J. Keisari - Efraim J. Keisari, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Efraim J. Keisari, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
Waitlist for new clients
Asking for help can be hard. Finding the right psychiatrist for you can be hard. As a board certified psychiatrist with a small patient-centered practice, I strive to create a personalized and thoughtful experience for you. I treat adults of all ages with a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various phobias. We can address issues such as sleeping difficulties (insomnia), relationship challenges, work stress, and life stage transitions.
Asking for help can be hard. Finding the right psychiatrist for you can be hard. As a board certified psychiatrist with a small patient-centered practice, I strive to create a personalized and thoughtful experience for you. I treat adults of all ages with a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various phobias. We can address issues such as sleeping difficulties (insomnia), relationship challenges, work stress, and life stage transitions.
(212) 287-5888 View (212) 287-5888
Photo of Kathia Duverne-Douyon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Kathia Duverne-Douyon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Online Only
I am passionate about helping individuals, like yourself, become the best versions of themselves by empowering you on your journey to healing and personal growth. Are you struggling with focus and memory, feeling unmotivated, or lacking purpose? Do you find it challenging to face each day? Experiencing mood swings? Ongoing sadness, or a sense of impending doom? Are past traumas triggering nightmares and impacting your well-being?
I am passionate about helping individuals, like yourself, become the best versions of themselves by empowering you on your journey to healing and personal growth. Are you struggling with focus and memory, feeling unmotivated, or lacking purpose? Do you find it challenging to face each day? Experiencing mood swings? Ongoing sadness, or a sense of impending doom? Are past traumas triggering nightmares and impacting your well-being?
(267) 704-8735 View (267) 704-8735
Photo of Harsimran Brar, Psychiatrist, MD
Harsimran Brar
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
My practice philosophy is treating a person as a whole. I provide confidential and comprehensive assessment based on you and/or your child’s personal needs. I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent psychiatrist and part of faculty practice at South Oaks Hospital Amityville. I offer evidence-based diagnostic and medication management services and incorporate healthier diet and lifestyle changes that will help you to be a better version of yourself. I treat mood, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, depression and other related mental health disorders. I specialize in dialectal behavioral therapy, specifically for people struggling with self harm.
My practice philosophy is treating a person as a whole. I provide confidential and comprehensive assessment based on you and/or your child’s personal needs. I am an Adult, Child and Adolescent psychiatrist and part of faculty practice at South Oaks Hospital Amityville. I offer evidence-based diagnostic and medication management services and incorporate healthier diet and lifestyle changes that will help you to be a better version of yourself. I treat mood, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, OCD, depression and other related mental health disorders. I specialize in dialectal behavioral therapy, specifically for people struggling with self harm.
(631) 480-8956 View (631) 480-8956
Photo of Gabriella Farkas, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Gabriella Farkas
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Online Only
I’m passionate about helping my patients feel healthy and empowered—no matter where their journey begins. I provide evidence-based diagnostic evaluations and thoughtful medication management, always guided by the latest research and a deep understanding of neurobiology. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor treatment plans with care and precision. Whether you're seeking a second opinion, considering medication adjustments, or exploring deprescribing, I welcome your questions and concerns. All services are delivered securely via a private video platform, offering comfort and convenience from your own home.
I’m passionate about helping my patients feel healthy and empowered—no matter where their journey begins. I provide evidence-based diagnostic evaluations and thoughtful medication management, always guided by the latest research and a deep understanding of neurobiology. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor treatment plans with care and precision. Whether you're seeking a second opinion, considering medication adjustments, or exploring deprescribing, I welcome your questions and concerns. All services are delivered securely via a private video platform, offering comfort and convenience from your own home.
(917) 267-9678 View (917) 267-9678
Photo of Fiana Klein, Psychiatrist, DO
Fiana Klein
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My treatment philosophy centers on treating the whole person. We will explore mental, physical, and emotional health. I take time with each patient and family to discuss their goals and understand their unique strengths and challenges. Often when people begin psychiatric care, they are at a difficult point in their life. My job is to help them (or their child) to find their strengths and build their resilience, so they can regain their health and continue to grow to their fullest potential. ​ Congratulations on taking the first step to getting help for yourself or your child.
My treatment philosophy centers on treating the whole person. We will explore mental, physical, and emotional health. I take time with each patient and family to discuss their goals and understand their unique strengths and challenges. Often when people begin psychiatric care, they are at a difficult point in their life. My job is to help them (or their child) to find their strengths and build their resilience, so they can regain their health and continue to grow to their fullest potential. ​ Congratulations on taking the first step to getting help for yourself or your child.
(631) 597-8955 View (631) 597-8955
Photo of Tatyana Goykhberg - South Shore Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
South Shore Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse licensed in NY specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and a number of other psychiatric conditions. Appointments are available for initial evaluations and follow-up appointments for patients in NY. Office appointments are available. We offer a unique perspective to patient care as we provide a holistic approach, emphasizing a connection between the mind and body.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse licensed in NY specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and a number of other psychiatric conditions. Appointments are available for initial evaluations and follow-up appointments for patients in NY. Office appointments are available. We offer a unique perspective to patient care as we provide a holistic approach, emphasizing a connection between the mind and body.
(631) 250-8709 View (631) 250-8709
Photo of Nicole Taub, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP
Nicole Taub
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP
Serves Area
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatry. I work with adults using a nonjudgmental, warm, empathic approach that supports evidence-based treatment. My therapeutic approach encompasses each patient as an individualized and client-centered approach, recognizing their strengths and tailoring them to the treatment plan in a safe environment.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Psychiatry. I work with adults using a nonjudgmental, warm, empathic approach that supports evidence-based treatment. My therapeutic approach encompasses each patient as an individualized and client-centered approach, recognizing their strengths and tailoring them to the treatment plan in a safe environment.
(516) 212-0364 View (516) 212-0364
Photo of Lesley Rothschild, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP , BC
Lesley Rothschild
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP , BC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is Board Certified to treat children, adolescents and adults. I see patients between the ages of 5 and 65 years of age. I specialize in psychopharmacology and my treatment philosophy centers on caring for the whole person as well as integrating holistic intervention’s when possible. Pharmacogenetic DNA testing via Genomind and GeneSight is available for appropriate patients.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is Board Certified to treat children, adolescents and adults. I see patients between the ages of 5 and 65 years of age. I specialize in psychopharmacology and my treatment philosophy centers on caring for the whole person as well as integrating holistic intervention’s when possible. Pharmacogenetic DNA testing via Genomind and GeneSight is available for appropriate patients.
(516) 586-0133 View (516) 586-0133
Photo of Vlad Kononchuk, Psychiatrist, MD
Vlad Kononchuk
Psychiatrist, MD
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Finding an experienced psychiatrist who is a good fit for you or your child can be difficult. I strive to provide the kind of care that sadly seems to be nearly extinct in today’s busy world – I get to know my patients well and give them ample time, without the distractions of insurance mandates or computer-generated checklists. Although I primarily see patients for medication management, I like to understand nuances of their lives and provide integrative treatment, rather than just tallying up symptoms and writing prescriptions. My direct, caring and practical approach is a good fit for those who are motivated to feel better.
Finding an experienced psychiatrist who is a good fit for you or your child can be difficult. I strive to provide the kind of care that sadly seems to be nearly extinct in today’s busy world – I get to know my patients well and give them ample time, without the distractions of insurance mandates or computer-generated checklists. Although I primarily see patients for medication management, I like to understand nuances of their lives and provide integrative treatment, rather than just tallying up symptoms and writing prescriptions. My direct, caring and practical approach is a good fit for those who are motivated to feel better.
(347) 846-0196 View (347) 846-0196

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Amanda Lefkowitz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, PMHNP
Dr. Amanda Lefkowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and owner at New Path Psychiatry, I specialize in medication management, addiction, and mood disorders. I offer culturally sensitive, individualized treatment using genetic testing, psychodynamic insight, and collaborative planning. My goal is to foster healing within a safe, supportive relationship and to partner closely with your broader healthcare team to ensure your care is integrated and effective.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and owner at New Path Psychiatry, I specialize in medication management, addiction, and mood disorders. I offer culturally sensitive, individualized treatment using genetic testing, psychodynamic insight, and collaborative planning. My goal is to foster healing within a safe, supportive relationship and to partner closely with your broader healthcare team to ensure your care is integrated and effective.
(516) 226-7902 View (516) 226-7902
Photo of Nidhin Samuel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nidhin Samuel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Nidhin Samuel places a strong emphasis on creating a safe environment in which you can work toward developing and strengthening mental health and maintenance. She enjoys assisting and providing care through telehealth in an integrated practice, building and fortifying care accessible to you. Sessions are personalized, targeted, and integrative. The initial sessions will be dedicated to assessing your current wellness and creating a personalized plan to fit your unique needs and goals. She is accepting new clients.
Nidhin Samuel places a strong emphasis on creating a safe environment in which you can work toward developing and strengthening mental health and maintenance. She enjoys assisting and providing care through telehealth in an integrated practice, building and fortifying care accessible to you. Sessions are personalized, targeted, and integrative. The initial sessions will be dedicated to assessing your current wellness and creating a personalized plan to fit your unique needs and goals. She is accepting new clients.
(646) 970-1695 View (646) 970-1695
Photo of Myrda Florvil, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Myrda Florvil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
11 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Passionate about mental health, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to my clients. I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD, panic disorder, mood disorders, sleep disorders, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, behavioral issues related to autism spectrum disorder, and adjustment disorders. I work with clients aged 12 and older, offering personalized support tailored to their unique needs.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Passionate about mental health, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to my clients. I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADD/ADHD, panic disorder, mood disorders, sleep disorders, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, behavioral issues related to autism spectrum disorder, and adjustment disorders. I work with clients aged 12 and older, offering personalized support tailored to their unique needs.
(516) 212-8152 View (516) 212-8152
Photo of Rachael Murphy, Psychiatrist, MD
Rachael Murphy
Psychiatrist, MD
11 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Dr. Rachael Murphy - a doctor specializing in helping patients reduce or eliminate long-term psychiatric medications. If you're struggling to find peace of mind, feeling lost and disconnected, or battling with a dysregulated nervous system, I can help. Many are concerned their medications merely mask underlying problems or wonder if they've become dependent. Some are experiencing protracted withdrawal. I provide a professional environment where your experiences are validated and understood.
Hi, I'm Dr. Rachael Murphy - a doctor specializing in helping patients reduce or eliminate long-term psychiatric medications. If you're struggling to find peace of mind, feeling lost and disconnected, or battling with a dysregulated nervous system, I can help. Many are concerned their medications merely mask underlying problems or wonder if they've become dependent. Some are experiencing protracted withdrawal. I provide a professional environment where your experiences are validated and understood.
(516) 908-8544 View (516) 908-8544
Photo of Jason M. Careri, Psychiatrist, MD
Jason M. Careri
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I am seeing new clients and offer in-person or virtual sessions. I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in evidence-based treatments for adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety and depression, and ADHD. I strive to create an environment that is comfortable and client-centered. I work with people in order to reduce their suffering and to empower them to improve their lives. A specific plan is developed for each individual which can include psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, or both. Please call if you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment. (516) 960-8096
I am seeing new clients and offer in-person or virtual sessions. I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in evidence-based treatments for adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety and depression, and ADHD. I strive to create an environment that is comfortable and client-centered. I work with people in order to reduce their suffering and to empower them to improve their lives. A specific plan is developed for each individual which can include psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, or both. Please call if you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment. (516) 960-8096
(516) 208-2953 View (516) 208-2953
Photo of Dr. Chenen Hsieh - Psycovery - Dr. Chenen Hsieh, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Psycovery - Dr. Chenen Hsieh, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Melville, NY 11747
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry, with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and stress-related concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry, with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and stress-related concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.
(516) 216-9893 View (516) 216-9893

See more therapy options for Plainview

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Plainview, NY

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Plainview, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% ADHD
86% Medication Management
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
64% Bipolar Disorder
57% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
57% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in Plainview, NY see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Plainview?

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.