Psychiatrists in Port Chester, NY

Photo of Tara Eyma, Psychiatrist, MD
Tara Eyma
Psychiatrist, MD
Port Chester, NY 10573
Dr. Eyma is a board certified psychiatrist licensed to practice in both New York and Connecticut. She is a graduate of the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education/City College of New York (a combined BS/MD program) and obtained her medical degree from Albany Medical College. She has been a staff psychiatrist at Montefiore Medical Center and Yale New Haven Hospital. She has a particular interest in cross-cultural psychiatry and global mental health. She spent two years working in a mental health clinic in the Wellington region of New Zealand providing care to a diverse patient population including Maori and Pasifika people.
Dr. Eyma is a board certified psychiatrist licensed to practice in both New York and Connecticut. She is a graduate of the Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education/City College of New York (a combined BS/MD program) and obtained her medical degree from Albany Medical College. She has been a staff psychiatrist at Montefiore Medical Center and Yale New Haven Hospital. She has a particular interest in cross-cultural psychiatry and global mental health. She spent two years working in a mental health clinic in the Wellington region of New Zealand providing care to a diverse patient population including Maori and Pasifika people.
(914) 353-4807 View (914) 353-4807
Photo of Aleyamma John - Johns wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Johns wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Port Chester, NY 10573
Life can be filled with ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. During these times, it is crucial to have a compassionate presence to lean on. Whether you're seeking advice, a listening ear, or simply a comforting virtual presence, I am here to provide that support. Remember, you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is in these moments that a supportive person can make a world of difference. It is my purpose to be part of that journey, extending a virtual hand to help you navigate whatever you may be going through.
Life can be filled with ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. During these times, it is crucial to have a compassionate presence to lean on. Whether you're seeking advice, a listening ear, or simply a comforting virtual presence, I am here to provide that support. Remember, you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is in these moments that a supportive person can make a world of difference. It is my purpose to be part of that journey, extending a virtual hand to help you navigate whatever you may be going through.
(914) 928-2664 View (914) 928-2664
Photo of Dr. Tara Eyma - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Port Chester, NY 10573
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(914) 653-7577 View (914) 653-7577
Photo of Arashinder Dhaliwal, Psychiatrist, MD
Arashinder Dhaliwal
Psychiatrist, MD
Port Chester, NY 10573
Arashinder Dhaliwal has 10+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. He believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. He partners with his patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy. He has special interest in anxiety, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, first break psychosis, trauma associated mental health disorders and ADHD.
Arashinder Dhaliwal has 10+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. He believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. He partners with his patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy. He has special interest in anxiety, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, first break psychosis, trauma associated mental health disorders and ADHD.
(914) 928-2138 View (914) 928-2138
Photo of Jennifer Landolt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P/NH
Jennifer Landolt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P/NH
Port Chester, NY 10573
Jennifer Landolt has worked in psychiatric nursing since 1994. She is a career nursing professional with experience treating clients throughout the adult lifespan and in many different environments ranging from inpatient to outpatient and from institutional to the private practice sectors. Jennifer is trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. She believes in the power of structure, exercise, meditation, mindfulness and journaling.
Jennifer Landolt has worked in psychiatric nursing since 1994. She is a career nursing professional with experience treating clients throughout the adult lifespan and in many different environments ranging from inpatient to outpatient and from institutional to the private practice sectors. Jennifer is trained in diagnosing mental health disorders, addiction support and offering treatment options in the form of prescribing medication and other nonpharmacological interventions. She believes in the power of structure, exercise, meditation, mindfulness and journaling.
(929) 581-8744 View (929) 581-8744

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vanessa Leigh Carroll, Psychiatrist, MD
Vanessa Leigh Carroll
Psychiatrist, MD
Ardsley, NY 10502
I use my background in Integrative Psychiatry to give my clients a 360 degree treatment plan, including supplements, lifestyle modification and psychiatric medications when appropriate. My approach appreciates that while psychiatric drugs and supplements can help, for most patients, it is not a quick fix and they do need psychotherapy in order to thrive and steer the treatment in a new direction.
I use my background in Integrative Psychiatry to give my clients a 360 degree treatment plan, including supplements, lifestyle modification and psychiatric medications when appropriate. My approach appreciates that while psychiatric drugs and supplements can help, for most patients, it is not a quick fix and they do need psychotherapy in order to thrive and steer the treatment in a new direction.
(914) 506-5448 View (914) 506-5448
Photo of Cara Gouldey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Cara Gouldey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
(267) 358-6157 View (267) 358-6157
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - TelePsychiatristPiedmont Behavioral Services, Psychiatrist, MD
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry
(914) 313-8262 View (914) 313-8262
Photo of Maria Shalukhova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP, BC
Maria Shalukhova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Maria Shalukhova has a dual degree as an adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric nurse practitioner, utilizing her knowledge and skills in both specialties. She is well-versed in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional disorders in individuals, including those with dementia, and utilizing medication management along with CBT.
Maria Shalukhova has a dual degree as an adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric nurse practitioner, utilizing her knowledge and skills in both specialties. She is well-versed in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional disorders in individuals, including those with dementia, and utilizing medication management along with CBT.
(914) 292-7710 View (914) 292-7710
Photo of Meghann Alcala, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Meghann Alcala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Yonkers, NY 10701
Meghann is passionate about providing quality, comprehensive, and compassionate patient-centered care. She takes pride in treating the person as a whole. Past experiences have given Meghann training geared towards utilizing individualized approaches to further assist diverse populations in coping with personal obstacles through psychiatric evaluations, therapy, and medication management. She has experience in treating a range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Meghann is passionate about providing quality, comprehensive, and compassionate patient-centered care. She takes pride in treating the person as a whole. Past experiences have given Meghann training geared towards utilizing individualized approaches to further assist diverse populations in coping with personal obstacles through psychiatric evaluations, therapy, and medication management. She has experience in treating a range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
(914) 598-9358 View (914) 598-9358
Photo of Derek H. Suite, Psychiatrist, M D, M S
Derek H. Suite
Psychiatrist, M D, M S
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Not accepting new clients
I am culturally sensitive & integrative in my approach and am always mindful to be caring, encouraging, attentive & supportive. I am able to prescribe traditional & nontraditional medications, but only as a last resort because there are so many other avenues to healing. I believe that achieving total wellness is about having the right conversation with the right person at the right time.
I am culturally sensitive & integrative in my approach and am always mindful to be caring, encouraging, attentive & supportive. I am able to prescribe traditional & nontraditional medications, but only as a last resort because there are so many other avenues to healing. I believe that achieving total wellness is about having the right conversation with the right person at the right time.
(855) 472-4843 View (855) 472-4843
Photo of Arlana Egan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Arlana Egan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming, and it’s normal to feel stuck or unsure where to turn. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, or a more complex condition like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, you might be searching for relief, clarity, and hope. You want to feel heard and understood, and your goal is to find a path to wellness that makes sense for you. That’s where I can help. With 8 years of psychiatric nursing experience, I’ve worked with people from all walks of life and have seen firsthand the challenges—and breakthroughs—of mental health care.
Life can be overwhelming, and it’s normal to feel stuck or unsure where to turn. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, psychosis, or a more complex condition like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, you might be searching for relief, clarity, and hope. You want to feel heard and understood, and your goal is to find a path to wellness that makes sense for you. That’s where I can help. With 8 years of psychiatric nursing experience, I’ve worked with people from all walks of life and have seen firsthand the challenges—and breakthroughs—of mental health care.
(929) 460-2188 View (929) 460-2188
Photo of Gina Canen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Gina Canen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I strongly believe that fostering a partnership through shared decision-making is essential for psychiatric providers and their clients. When both sides collaborate, it empowers clients to take an active role in their mental health journey, leading to better outcomes and a deeper sense of ownership in the process.
I strongly believe that fostering a partnership through shared decision-making is essential for psychiatric providers and their clients. When both sides collaborate, it empowers clients to take an active role in their mental health journey, leading to better outcomes and a deeper sense of ownership in the process.
(845) 957-7643 View (845) 957-7643
Photo of Savitha Rao, Psychiatrist, MD
Savitha Rao
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Rao is a double-boarded general and child & adolescent psychiatrist. She was born and raised in NJ, attended Rutgers University as an undergraduate in the business school, and spent some time working in corporate America before pursuing a career in medicine. Dr. Rao attended New Jersey Medical School, opted to stay in NJ for psychiatric residency training at Rutgers University and then pursued fellowship training there in child and adolescent psychiatry. During training, she gained valuable experience in treating mood disorders, psychosis, trauma, addiction, forensics as well as multiple therapies.
Dr. Rao is a double-boarded general and child & adolescent psychiatrist. She was born and raised in NJ, attended Rutgers University as an undergraduate in the business school, and spent some time working in corporate America before pursuing a career in medicine. Dr. Rao attended New Jersey Medical School, opted to stay in NJ for psychiatric residency training at Rutgers University and then pursued fellowship training there in child and adolescent psychiatry. During training, she gained valuable experience in treating mood disorders, psychosis, trauma, addiction, forensics as well as multiple therapies.
(646) 833-0789 View (646) 833-0789
Photo of Alexis N Haughton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Alexis N Haughton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with more than 11 years of psychiatric experience. I strive to provide safe access to mental health services across the lifespan and specialize in a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I am certified in medical Marijuana and Suboxone.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with more than 11 years of psychiatric experience. I strive to provide safe access to mental health services across the lifespan and specialize in a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I am certified in medical Marijuana and Suboxone.
(914) 350-6323 View (914) 350-6323
Photo of Sarah Kent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Sarah Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
New York, NY 10017
I have successfully treated patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Hallucinations and Delusions as well as addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with patients as young as 2 years old and as old as 105 years old.
I have successfully treated patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Hallucinations and Delusions as well as addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with patients as young as 2 years old and as old as 105 years old.
(516) 701-2131 View (516) 701-2131
Photo of Merin Mathew, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Merin Mathew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Mental health is essential for navigating life’s challenges, obstacles, and the difficult experiences that often take time to process. I strive to provide a safe space, knowing how hard it can be to reach out and share your struggles, especially when support feels lacking or fear takes hold. You are not alone, many individuals face these battles daily. Still, I believe challenges can lead to deeper understanding and personal growth,not just in managing mental illness, but in embracing the entire journey. Remember, life is made up of many chapters,it doesn’t stop at just one.
Mental health is essential for navigating life’s challenges, obstacles, and the difficult experiences that often take time to process. I strive to provide a safe space, knowing how hard it can be to reach out and share your struggles, especially when support feels lacking or fear takes hold. You are not alone, many individuals face these battles daily. Still, I believe challenges can lead to deeper understanding and personal growth,not just in managing mental illness, but in embracing the entire journey. Remember, life is made up of many chapters,it doesn’t stop at just one.
(347) 603-1085 View (347) 603-1085
Photo of Arun Kunwar, Psychiatrist, MD
Arun Kunwar
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
With more than 20 years of experience working as a psychiatrist and 15 years as a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I focus on each patient's strengths and believe strongly that empowering each individual in treatment decision making is most critical part of any good treatment. Medication management for psychiatric disorders is complex. I am strong proponent of following evidence based recommendations personalized to each individual.
With more than 20 years of experience working as a psychiatrist and 15 years as a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I focus on each patient's strengths and believe strongly that empowering each individual in treatment decision making is most critical part of any good treatment. Medication management for psychiatric disorders is complex. I am strong proponent of following evidence based recommendations personalized to each individual.
(315) 308-8014 View (315) 308-8014
Photo of Anita Richardson-Sasson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anita Richardson-Sasson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Yonkers, NY 10701
*Currently accepting new patients via telepsychiatry.* I am ready to help you! I have been a Registered Nurse for 12+ years and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 9+ years, and my mission is to improve your life. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, and ADHD for adults, and older adults. I view psychiatry through a holistic standpoint, in which I use the mind and the body to help you get to the wellness that you so deserve.
*Currently accepting new patients via telepsychiatry.* I am ready to help you! I have been a Registered Nurse for 12+ years and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for 9+ years, and my mission is to improve your life. My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, and ADHD for adults, and older adults. I view psychiatry through a holistic standpoint, in which I use the mind and the body to help you get to the wellness that you so deserve.
(914) 359-3078 View (914) 359-3078
Photo of David C Saunders, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
David C Saunders
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
New York, NY 10024
I work with any person - child, adolescent, adult - who is seeking treatment. They may be suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. Or perhaps they have never been diagnosed with a clinical disorder, but are seeking help to reduce stress during a difficult time, such as a challenging life transition or the death of a loved one. Those seeking a highly individualized and comprehensive approach to mental health treatment might find my practice particularly attractive, given what it offers.
I work with any person - child, adolescent, adult - who is seeking treatment. They may be suffering from depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, among others. Or perhaps they have never been diagnosed with a clinical disorder, but are seeking help to reduce stress during a difficult time, such as a challenging life transition or the death of a loved one. Those seeking a highly individualized and comprehensive approach to mental health treatment might find my practice particularly attractive, given what it offers.
(646) 718-2840 View (646) 718-2840

See more therapy options for Port Chester

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Port Chester, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Port Chester, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
80% ADHD
80% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
80% BHS | Behavioral Health Systems
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Port Chester, NY see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Port Chester?

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.