Psychiatrists in Poughkeepsie, NY

Photo of Andrea Smith, EdD, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrea Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601  (Online Only)
My passions lies in helping individuals navigate complex emotional and mental health challenges. My approach combines evidence-based treatment with compassionate, client-centered care. With training in psychotherapy and medication management, I aim to empower my clients on their journey to healing and recovery, offering a safe and supportive space for their unique needs.
My passions lies in helping individuals navigate complex emotional and mental health challenges. My approach combines evidence-based treatment with compassionate, client-centered care. With training in psychotherapy and medication management, I aim to empower my clients on their journey to healing and recovery, offering a safe and supportive space for their unique needs.
(845) 470-5755 View (845) 470-5755
Photo of Judy Dulberg, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Judy Dulberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
As a clinician at Clearwave Psychiatry, I provide compassionate and personalized mental healthcare to my patients. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received a BA degree in Psychology from Brooklyn College and a BSN degree from NYU. I also have a MA degree in Disability Studies from the City University of New York and earned her MSN in Nursing from Russell Sage College and was inducted to Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. My goal is to provide individualized care with meaningful, supportive, and therapeutic rapport and communication.
As a clinician at Clearwave Psychiatry, I provide compassionate and personalized mental healthcare to my patients. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I received a BA degree in Psychology from Brooklyn College and a BSN degree from NYU. I also have a MA degree in Disability Studies from the City University of New York and earned her MSN in Nursing from Russell Sage College and was inducted to Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. My goal is to provide individualized care with meaningful, supportive, and therapeutic rapport and communication.
(845) 412-9289 View (845) 412-9289
Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(845) 413-2344 View (845) 413-2344
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(845) 576-1589 View (845) 576-1589
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
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.
(845) 456-6362 View (845) 456-6362
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(845) 328-2865 View (845) 328-2865
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(845) 328-2516 View (845) 328-2516
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Psychiatrist in Poughkeepsie, MD, Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist in Poughkeepsie
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
(845) 516-6998 View (845) 516-6998
Hudson Healthy Minds
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
We treat a myriad of psychiatric emotional/mental health issues with medication management and psychotherapy. We serve the Hudson Valley. We have several therapist on staff to provide counseling to both adults, children and adolescent population.
We treat a myriad of psychiatric emotional/mental health issues with medication management and psychotherapy. We serve the Hudson Valley. We have several therapist on staff to provide counseling to both adults, children and adolescent population.
(845) 581-2697 View (845) 581-2697
Photo of Claudine Sapini, DPN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Claudine Sapini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
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.
(845) 328-2806 View (845) 328-2806
Photo of Iris A. Grett - Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Iris A. Grett - Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I attended SUNY Delhi University receiving a BSN and then obtained a second masters degree from Sage University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with many different groups of patients that have dealt with depression, anxiety, OCD, and many other mental states. In my therapy and medication management, I utilize my philosophy of empathy, individual worth, ethics and diplomacy to make a positive difference with my patients.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I attended SUNY Delhi University receiving a BSN and then obtained a second masters degree from Sage University as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have worked with many different groups of patients that have dealt with depression, anxiety, OCD, and many other mental states. In my therapy and medication management, I utilize my philosophy of empathy, individual worth, ethics and diplomacy to make a positive difference with my patients.
(845) 671-3551 View (845) 671-3551
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Robinson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kimberly Robinson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of both children, adolescents and adults for a variety of psychiatric disorders, including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I provide trauma informed care, and make an effort to compassionately treat the whole person while valuing the autonomy of my patients. Recommendations may include recommendations for medication, therapy, supplements, lifestyle and behavioral changes. I have a special interest in women’s health, trauma informed care, attachment, and integrative psychiatry.
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of both children, adolescents and adults for a variety of psychiatric disorders, including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I provide trauma informed care, and make an effort to compassionately treat the whole person while valuing the autonomy of my patients. Recommendations may include recommendations for medication, therapy, supplements, lifestyle and behavioral changes. I have a special interest in women’s health, trauma informed care, attachment, and integrative psychiatry.
(845) 261-0944 View (845) 261-0944
Photo of Jessica C. Olivo, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica C. Olivo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Jessica Olivo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of mental health experience. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management follow up. Jessica provides supportive listening, compassion, and cultivates a collaborative relationship with her patients. She approaches care in a calm and therapeutic manner that allows clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves and to be proactive members in their own treatment.
Jessica Olivo is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 15 years of mental health experience. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management follow up. Jessica provides supportive listening, compassion, and cultivates a collaborative relationship with her patients. She approaches care in a calm and therapeutic manner that allows clients to feel comfortable expressing themselves and to be proactive members in their own treatment.
(845) 640-5810 View (845) 640-5810
Photo of Iva Lesniak - Iva Lesniak, DO, Psychiatry PLLC, DO, BC, Psychiatrist
Iva Lesniak, DO, Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, BC
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
Not accepting new clients
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
(845) 237-3981 View (845) 237-3981
Photo of Kathleen Fanning Woods, RN, MSN, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Fanning Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, NPP
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Not accepting new clients
From our first meeting, we begin a relationship built upon kindness, empathy, trust and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address the important issues that are bringing you here. Through my years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have realized that mental health encompasses more than just words, it includes physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and deal with stressful situations, how we make choices, interact with others and find solutions. I would like the opportunity to work with you in discovering and treating the issues that are affecting you.
From our first meeting, we begin a relationship built upon kindness, empathy, trust and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address the important issues that are bringing you here. Through my years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have realized that mental health encompasses more than just words, it includes physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and deal with stressful situations, how we make choices, interact with others and find solutions. I would like the opportunity to work with you in discovering and treating the issues that are affecting you.
(845) 203-2320 View (845) 203-2320
Photo of Varinder Singh Rathore - Northern Medical Group Behavioral Health Division, MD, Psychiatrist
Northern Medical Group Behavioral Health Division
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
Opiate addiction effects 1.9 million Americans and has the potential to destroy individuals and families but their is help.. We offer evidence-based medication assisted treatments including buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv) for opioid dependence. We offer personalized one-on-one care for every patient to reclaim their lives. Varinder S. Rathore MD is Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry with 15+ years experience with opioid dependence treatment. As a former Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical he is one of the most skilled addiction physicians in the country. We can help you. Call us today.
Opiate addiction effects 1.9 million Americans and has the potential to destroy individuals and families but their is help.. We offer evidence-based medication assisted treatments including buprenorphine (Suboxone, Zubsolv) for opioid dependence. We offer personalized one-on-one care for every patient to reclaim their lives. Varinder S. Rathore MD is Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry with 15+ years experience with opioid dependence treatment. As a former Assistant Professor at Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical he is one of the most skilled addiction physicians in the country. We can help you. Call us today.
(845) 237-3915 View (845) 237-3915
Photo of Naheed Akhtar, MD, Psychiatrist
Naheed Akhtar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
I love to help people! I completed my residency from Northshore University Hospital Manhasset NY. integrated within the Northwell health system - I have been practicing psychiatry and seeding hope for more than 20 years in all settings for Pt population like in-patients , community health centers and ER .During these years my focus has been to listen empathically and treat them the best i can .i was awarded by pronounced Vitals as the most compassionate dr who treat their pts with utmost kindness - also top rated by U.S News Health. My passion and profession meets here.
I love to help people! I completed my residency from Northshore University Hospital Manhasset NY. integrated within the Northwell health system - I have been practicing psychiatry and seeding hope for more than 20 years in all settings for Pt population like in-patients , community health centers and ER .During these years my focus has been to listen empathically and treat them the best i can .i was awarded by pronounced Vitals as the most compassionate dr who treat their pts with utmost kindness - also top rated by U.S News Health. My passion and profession meets here.
(845) 251-4108 View (845) 251-4108
Photo of Renata Krymkevich, MD, Psychiatrist
Renata Krymkevich
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
I've been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years with a special area of expertise in affective disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as treating young adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. I am an independent practitioner and my office is very private. I pride myself to run on schedule. I make myself available for emergency appointments if needed, and respond to phone calls within 24 business hours.
I've been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years with a special area of expertise in affective disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as treating young adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. I am an independent practitioner and my office is very private. I pride myself to run on schedule. I make myself available for emergency appointments if needed, and respond to phone calls within 24 business hours.
(845) 660-8267 View (845) 660-8267
Syeda I Hasan MD, Pc DFAPA
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatrist in child & adolescent/Adult medicine with 20+ years of experience. Associated with the field of psychiatry, my work experience and professionalism have led me to establish myself as a strong candidate for dealing with patients with chronic mental ailments. I offer psychiatric consultations, evaluations & medication management through telemedicine.
I am a board certified psychiatrist in child & adolescent/Adult medicine with 20+ years of experience. Associated with the field of psychiatry, my work experience and professionalism have led me to establish myself as a strong candidate for dealing with patients with chronic mental ailments. I offer psychiatric consultations, evaluations & medication management through telemedicine.
(845) 463-2896 View (845) 463-2896
Photo of Jessica Barofsky, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jessica Barofsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601  (Online Only)
I work together with clients and their families to understanding greater the underlying issues from which many psychiatric manifestations are stemming from, providing psychoeducation, and then picking the best suited, personalized treatment plan to address the specific needs of each client.
I work together with clients and their families to understanding greater the underlying issues from which many psychiatric manifestations are stemming from, providing psychoeducation, and then picking the best suited, personalized treatment plan to address the specific needs of each client.
(646) 619-8071 View (646) 619-8071
1

See more therapy options for Poughkeepsie

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Poughkeepsie, NY

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Poughkeepsie, NY who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
90% Depression
83% Medication Management
79% Bipolar Disorder
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
66% ADHD
66% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
91% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
83% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Poughkeepsie, NY see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Poughkeepsie?

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.