Psychiatrists in Rensselaer County, NY

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Photo of Carole A Rumberger, MA, MSN, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carole A Rumberger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rensselaer, NY 12144
If you are looking to overcome challenges and transform your life through an integrative approach, then please consider Auxano Psychiatric NP Services. Derived from the Greek word for growth, 'Auxano' reflects our deep commitment to your personal and mental health. We provide psychiatric care with an emphasis on integrative psychiatry, an approach to mental health care that combines conventional psychiatric practices with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) techniques. We collaborate to treat your "whole person", taking into account your mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs.
If you are looking to overcome challenges and transform your life through an integrative approach, then please consider Auxano Psychiatric NP Services. Derived from the Greek word for growth, 'Auxano' reflects our deep commitment to your personal and mental health. We provide psychiatric care with an emphasis on integrative psychiatry, an approach to mental health care that combines conventional psychiatric practices with complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) techniques. We collaborate to treat your "whole person", taking into account your mental, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs.
(518) 400-3848 x2 View (518) 400-3848 x2
Photo of Erica Wall - Merkaba Mental Health, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Merkaba Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rensselaer, NY 12144
Erica Wall, MSN, PMHNP-BC employs a comprehensive approach to health by integrating traditional methods with contemporary interventions. Her practice incorporates psychotropic medication, nutritional supplements, & lifestyle management aimed at fostering holistic well-being. Drawing from her extensive experience in acute care, mental health, & integrative health, she is dedicated to fostering a connection between mind & body. Notably, supporting women's health across the hormonal lifespan is of most interest.
Erica Wall, MSN, PMHNP-BC employs a comprehensive approach to health by integrating traditional methods with contemporary interventions. Her practice incorporates psychotropic medication, nutritional supplements, & lifestyle management aimed at fostering holistic well-being. Drawing from her extensive experience in acute care, mental health, & integrative health, she is dedicated to fostering a connection between mind & body. Notably, supporting women's health across the hormonal lifespan is of most interest.
(838) 384-8100 View (838) 384-8100
Photo of Jan Yager - Latham NP Care PLLC, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPbc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latham NP Care PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPbc
Verified Verified
Troy, NY 12180
Feeling overwhelmed in silent moments, convinced your anxious thoughts are visible to everyone around you? You're not alone, and I understand the weight of that secret worry." I have available appointment open at this time.
Feeling overwhelmed in silent moments, convinced your anxious thoughts are visible to everyone around you? You're not alone, and I understand the weight of that secret worry." I have available appointment open at this time.
(518) 309-7627 View (518) 309-7627
Angela Sheehan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP, BC
Verified Verified
Rensselaer, NY 12144
Whether you are struggling with relationships, anxiety, depression, or inability to concentrate, when we have an opportunity to engage, we will look at many components of your life, not just the current or present issues. It is my belief that many of our thinking patterns are developed at a very young age through our upbringing and influence of culture and socialization. Sometimes these thinking patterns serve us and sometimes they are of disservice to us. Together we can find what is not serving you anymore and come up with new strategies that will lead to a better version of yourself. This may or may not include medication.
Whether you are struggling with relationships, anxiety, depression, or inability to concentrate, when we have an opportunity to engage, we will look at many components of your life, not just the current or present issues. It is my belief that many of our thinking patterns are developed at a very young age through our upbringing and influence of culture and socialization. Sometimes these thinking patterns serve us and sometimes they are of disservice to us. Together we can find what is not serving you anymore and come up with new strategies that will lead to a better version of yourself. This may or may not include medication.
(518) 750-0684 x100 View (518) 750-0684 x100
Photo of Kathleen Landry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Landry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Kathleen Landry and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about providing holistic, person-centered care to women in all stages of life, particularly during fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journeys. I am specially trained in perinatal and women's mental health through Massachusetts General Hospital and Postpartum Support International and I enjoy sharing up-to-date, evidence-based options to support your health goals.
Hello! My name is Kathleen Landry and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about providing holistic, person-centered care to women in all stages of life, particularly during fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journeys. I am specially trained in perinatal and women's mental health through Massachusetts General Hospital and Postpartum Support International and I enjoy sharing up-to-date, evidence-based options to support your health goals.
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Photo of Olivia Vignone, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olivia Vignone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Troy, NY 12180
Waitlist for new clients
I want to thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I also applaud you for being proactive on your journey to mental wellness. My ideal client(s) is/are anyone needing help getting to be (or back to) their best self! Perhaps you're a parent who can't find a provider to help with their child's behavioral, emotional or attention issues. How about a teenager who is having a hard time in life? Or a person who has seen a plethora of providers ... I am well educated in psychopharmacology, constantly am learning of new medications and fully believe in the bio-psycho-social approach to healing and wellness. I can help!
I want to thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I also applaud you for being proactive on your journey to mental wellness. My ideal client(s) is/are anyone needing help getting to be (or back to) their best self! Perhaps you're a parent who can't find a provider to help with their child's behavioral, emotional or attention issues. How about a teenager who is having a hard time in life? Or a person who has seen a plethora of providers ... I am well educated in psychopharmacology, constantly am learning of new medications and fully believe in the bio-psycho-social approach to healing and wellness. I can help!
(518) 990-2386 View (518) 990-2386
Photo of Vanesa Samos, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vanesa Samos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, NY 12180
Vanesa is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Vanesa believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
Vanesa is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Vanesa believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 413-0907 View (518) 413-0907
Photo of Carrie I. Edick, RN, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carrie I. Edick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Carrie is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Carrie believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
Carrie is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Carrie believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 975-2446 View (518) 975-2446
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
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Photo of Usman Syed Riaz, MD, Psychiatrist
Usman Syed Riaz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Board Certified Psychiatrist with Addiction Psychiatry and Sleep medicine as sub specialities. If you are suffering from mental health, substance use or sleep disorders, don’t keep it to yourself, ask for help and I will make sure to provide you the best care.
Board Certified Psychiatrist with Addiction Psychiatry and Sleep medicine as sub specialities. If you are suffering from mental health, substance use or sleep disorders, don’t keep it to yourself, ask for help and I will make sure to provide you the best care.
(929) 334-3758 View (929) 334-3758
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(518) 520-1507 View (518) 520-1507
Photo of Bick Wanck, MD, Psychiatrist
Bick Wanck
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Our practice is located at 401 Geyser Road, Saratoga Springs, NY with 12 mental health practitioners - therapists as well as prescribers - with an emphasis on psychotherapy and counseling. Please visit our website: www.bickwanckmdandassociates.com or contact the office at 518 583-3035 for further information. We accept commercial insurance only - no Medicare or Medicaid plans. You can also check out Bick’s author website at www.bickwanckmd.com to check out blogs and links to his book Mind Easing: the 3-layered healing plan for anxiety and depression.
Our practice is located at 401 Geyser Road, Saratoga Springs, NY with 12 mental health practitioners - therapists as well as prescribers - with an emphasis on psychotherapy and counseling. Please visit our website: www.bickwanckmdandassociates.com or contact the office at 518 583-3035 for further information. We accept commercial insurance only - no Medicare or Medicaid plans. You can also check out Bick’s author website at www.bickwanckmd.com to check out blogs and links to his book Mind Easing: the 3-layered healing plan for anxiety and depression.
(518) 650-3364 View (518) 650-3364
Photo of Claudine Sapini, DPN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Claudine Sapini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
(518) 759-7144 View (518) 759-7144
Joan M Killeen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, B, C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Depression and anxiety can significantly impact a person's quality of life. There are ways to combat these conditions with medication and therapy. A willingness to feel better and want to change is all that is needed to get started on the road to recovery. I look forward to treating the adult population (age 18+), utilizing medication management, brief person-centered psychotherapy and education to help manage distress, empower and motivate patients to achieve their life goals.
Depression and anxiety can significantly impact a person's quality of life. There are ways to combat these conditions with medication and therapy. A willingness to feel better and want to change is all that is needed to get started on the road to recovery. I look forward to treating the adult population (age 18+), utilizing medication management, brief person-centered psychotherapy and education to help manage distress, empower and motivate patients to achieve their life goals.
(518) 990-7970 View (518) 990-7970
Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(518) 660-8194 View (518) 660-8194
Photo of Magdalena Spariosu, FAPA, MD, Psychiatrist
Magdalena Spariosu
Psychiatrist, FAPA, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello and welcome to my page! As a Brain Injury Medicine Psychiatrist, I am passionate about helping high-achieving individuals who are facing the challenges of medical and neurological co-morbidities, particularly those who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whether recently or in the past. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance to patients recovering from TBI, who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, memory deficits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they work towards reclaiming their sense of self and achieving their optimal well-being once again.
Hello and welcome to my page! As a Brain Injury Medicine Psychiatrist, I am passionate about helping high-achieving individuals who are facing the challenges of medical and neurological co-morbidities, particularly those who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whether recently or in the past. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance to patients recovering from TBI, who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, memory deficits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they work towards reclaiming their sense of self and achieving their optimal well-being once again.
(347) 897-5791 View (347) 897-5791
Photo of Danielle Damas - Danielle Damas NP in Psychiatry P.C., MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Damas NP in Psychiatry P.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a holistic mental health practice, Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC focuses on helping people of all ages overcome their challenges and move forward into a thriving, satisfying life. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Danielle Damas, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BC-NP, is based in Valley Stream, New York, and offers her psychiatric services through telemedicine and in person visits.
As a holistic mental health practice, Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC focuses on helping people of all ages overcome their challenges and move forward into a thriving, satisfying life. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Danielle Damas, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BC-NP, is based in Valley Stream, New York, and offers her psychiatric services through telemedicine and in person visits.
(516) 714-5852 View (516) 714-5852
Photo of Jacquelyn Ransbury, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacquelyn Ransbury
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Jacquelyn is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Jacquelyn believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
Jacquelyn is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Jacquelyn believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 759-6218 View (518) 759-6218
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(518) 543-7637 View (518) 543-7637
Photo of Ashley M. Monroe, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley M. Monroe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Ashley is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Ashley believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
Ashley is a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New York, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. She is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. Ashley believes in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. She works collaboratively with her patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 757-0866 View (518) 757-0866
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Rensselaer County, NY

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Rensselaer County, NY who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
93% Anxiety
85% Trauma and PTSD
81% Bipolar Disorder
74% ADHD
74% Medication Management
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% Aetna
83% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Rensselaer County, NY see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Rensselaer County?

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.