Psychiatrists in Rockland County, NY

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Photo of Renette Casseus-Dametas, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC, RN
Renette Casseus-Dametas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC, RN
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a PMHNP with over a decade of experience in mental health; including inpatient, outpatient, and detox care. I currently work with adolescents in a school-based setting, and with adults for a non-profit organization. Based in New York, I am committed to culturally competent care, ethical sensitivity and providing treatment in natural living environments. I enjoy spending time with my family, my dog and hiking.
I am a PMHNP with over a decade of experience in mental health; including inpatient, outpatient, and detox care. I currently work with adolescents in a school-based setting, and with adults for a non-profit organization. Based in New York, I am committed to culturally competent care, ethical sensitivity and providing treatment in natural living environments. I enjoy spending time with my family, my dog and hiking.
(845) 957-9097 View (845) 957-9097
Photo of Joy Gavigan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joy Gavigan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
New City, NY 10956
Hi, my name is Joy Gavigan, and I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, based in the Lower Hudson Valley, NY. I received my MSN in 2020 from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing and have worked in healthcare for over 20 years.
Hi, my name is Joy Gavigan, and I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, based in the Lower Hudson Valley, NY. I received my MSN in 2020 from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing and have worked in healthcare for over 20 years.
(845) 599-7945 View (845) 599-7945
Photo of Nelson Romero, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Nelson Romero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sparkill, NY 10976
I am a PMHNP deeply committed to delivering high-quality, empathetic, and thorough mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. My robust clinical abilities complement my innate capacity to establish strong connections with patients and their families. My practice is rooted in evidence-based guidelines, combining clinical expertise with personal observation and intuition. I prioritize interdisciplinary education and foster collaboration among healthcare professionals, emphasizing a holistic, patient-centered approach to health and well-being.
I am a PMHNP deeply committed to delivering high-quality, empathetic, and thorough mental health care to children, adolescents, and adults. My robust clinical abilities complement my innate capacity to establish strong connections with patients and their families. My practice is rooted in evidence-based guidelines, combining clinical expertise with personal observation and intuition. I prioritize interdisciplinary education and foster collaboration among healthcare professionals, emphasizing a holistic, patient-centered approach to health and well-being.
(845) 660-6178 View (845) 660-6178
Clovis Raymond
Psychiatrist, MD
Bardonia, NY 10954
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Clovis Raymond, M.D., serving children, adolescents, and adults. Our goal is to provide you and your family timely, comprehensive, respectful, quality services in a safe and pleasant clinical environment.
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Clovis Raymond, M.D., serving children, adolescents, and adults. Our goal is to provide you and your family timely, comprehensive, respectful, quality services in a safe and pleasant clinical environment.
(845) 704-2768 View (845) 704-2768
Photo of Sadhana Sardana, Psychiatrist, MD
Sadhana Sardana
Psychiatrist, MD
New City, NY 10956
I value the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and collaboration with parents/families, teachers and other providers to understand the patient and his/her strengths and needs in the context of the family, taking into consideration the impact of the developmental, biological, psycho-social, cultural, educational, vocational factors etc. My patients describe me as a caring, empathic and kind-hearted person. I want to help people suffering from mental health issues so that they live a happy, independent, fulfilling and productive life.
I value the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and collaboration with parents/families, teachers and other providers to understand the patient and his/her strengths and needs in the context of the family, taking into consideration the impact of the developmental, biological, psycho-social, cultural, educational, vocational factors etc. My patients describe me as a caring, empathic and kind-hearted person. I want to help people suffering from mental health issues so that they live a happy, independent, fulfilling and productive life.
(845) 203-3529 View (845) 203-3529
Photo of Dr. Mary Asiedu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Mary Asiedu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and am a board-certified, New York University-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental health across the lifespan. I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health and quality of life. I will partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment by going beyond the symptoms that brought you into treatment. I have a niche for caregivers, adolescents, young adults, students, and those who are grieving. I am passionate about listening deeply to your experience.
I have a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and am a board-certified, New York University-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental health across the lifespan. I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health and quality of life. I will partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment by going beyond the symptoms that brought you into treatment. I have a niche for caregivers, adolescents, young adults, students, and those who are grieving. I am passionate about listening deeply to your experience.
(845) 209-0392 View (845) 209-0392
Photo of Samantha Vassor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Samantha Vassor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you are experiencing mood swings, life transitions, lack of motivation, trauma, or may have a general need for a safe, nonjudgmental and open space to process life’s obstacles, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing. My name is Samantha Vassor and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a decade of behavioral health experience across the life spans in underserved populations within various settings, and witnessing the effects of underestimated and overlooked mental health needs of close loved ones, I bring empathy, patience, enthusiasm, and compassion to the field.
Whether you are experiencing mood swings, life transitions, lack of motivation, trauma, or may have a general need for a safe, nonjudgmental and open space to process life’s obstacles, I am here to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing. My name is Samantha Vassor and I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a decade of behavioral health experience across the life spans in underserved populations within various settings, and witnessing the effects of underestimated and overlooked mental health needs of close loved ones, I bring empathy, patience, enthusiasm, and compassion to the field.
(845) 409-0134 View (845) 409-0134
Photo of Katie Lindenbaum, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Katie Lindenbaum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for adults with mental health concerns. I incorporate supportive psychotherapy in my sessions and take a holistic approach, placing emphasis on lifestyle modifications, sleep hygiene, and nutrition. I have worked in different roles in oncology for over 9 years and provide support to individuals who have been affected by cancer (oncology patients, survivors, caregivers, and individuals experiencing loss). I have a strong understanding of the unique needs that can arise through all phases of the cancer journey.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for adults with mental health concerns. I incorporate supportive psychotherapy in my sessions and take a holistic approach, placing emphasis on lifestyle modifications, sleep hygiene, and nutrition. I have worked in different roles in oncology for over 9 years and provide support to individuals who have been affected by cancer (oncology patients, survivors, caregivers, and individuals experiencing loss). I have a strong understanding of the unique needs that can arise through all phases of the cancer journey.
(914) 218-6069 View (914) 218-6069
Photo of Laura Coleman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NC-BC, CNL
Laura Coleman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NC-BC, CNL
Nyack, NY 10960
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Board Certified Nurse Coach providing medication management and psychotherapy for clients in need of mental health services. In my capacity as a Nurse Coach, Psych Nurse, and Psychiatric NP, I have worked with adult clients experiencing stress, anxiety, marginalization, PTSD, situational and generational traumas, and individuals with co-occurring mental and physical health challenges.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Board Certified Nurse Coach providing medication management and psychotherapy for clients in need of mental health services. In my capacity as a Nurse Coach, Psych Nurse, and Psychiatric NP, I have worked with adult clients experiencing stress, anxiety, marginalization, PTSD, situational and generational traumas, and individuals with co-occurring mental and physical health challenges.
(845) 523-6981 View (845) 523-6981
Photo of Moise Kenneth Belizaire - Empowerment Health. LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BBA, MSN, PMHNP
Empowerment Health. LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BBA, MSN, PMHNP
Pearl River, NY 10965
Finding the right psychiatrist can be a very challenging endeavor mainly because this is usually a very delicate and private subject. We have experience in every aspect that relates to the field of psychiatry, but most importantly, we know how to combine that knowledge with complete confidentiality and respect to our patients. We are a psychiatric practice with an experienced staff of collaborative psychiatrists, board-certified psychiatric NPs, social workers, and therapists. We have broad expertise in the precise analysis of the factors and causes of the challenges that you are facing.
Finding the right psychiatrist can be a very challenging endeavor mainly because this is usually a very delicate and private subject. We have experience in every aspect that relates to the field of psychiatry, but most importantly, we know how to combine that knowledge with complete confidentiality and respect to our patients. We are a psychiatric practice with an experienced staff of collaborative psychiatrists, board-certified psychiatric NPs, social workers, and therapists. We have broad expertise in the precise analysis of the factors and causes of the challenges that you are facing.
(914) 228-7990 View (914) 228-7990
Photo of Patricia M Waite, Psychiatrist, MD
Patricia M Waite
Psychiatrist, MD
Pomona, NY 10970
Find caring and competent treatment at Essential Medical, where we support your mental well-being. We are here for you! Let Essential Medical partner with you on your journey to a better you.
Find caring and competent treatment at Essential Medical, where we support your mental well-being. We are here for you! Let Essential Medical partner with you on your journey to a better you.
(845) 582-3176 View (845) 582-3176
Photo of Max Slotwinski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Max Slotwinski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Nyack, NY 10960
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond just a prescription. Currently, I only offer services via telehealth, so one must be comfortable with utilizing that platform. A physical office space is in my near future, but even then, I intend to offer hybrid care for the convenience and comfort of my clients. My ideal client wishes to gain insight and clarity through the psychiatric evaluation process and also find balance and quality of life via ongoing treatment.
My ideal client is motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond just a prescription. Currently, I only offer services via telehealth, so one must be comfortable with utilizing that platform. A physical office space is in my near future, but even then, I intend to offer hybrid care for the convenience and comfort of my clients. My ideal client wishes to gain insight and clarity through the psychiatric evaluation process and also find balance and quality of life via ongoing treatment.
(845) 479-6713 View (845) 479-6713
Amandeep Bhandal
Psychiatrist, MD
West Nyack, NY 10994
My name is Amandeep Bhandal. I am board certified adult Psychiatrist. I did my adult residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and my fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, PA. I am invested in providing care to children and their caregivers and to young adults. My area of interest is geared towards populations with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, anxiety conditions and trauma. I believe in working with my patients towards optimal health.
My name is Amandeep Bhandal. I am board certified adult Psychiatrist. I did my adult residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and my fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, PA. I am invested in providing care to children and their caregivers and to young adults. My area of interest is geared towards populations with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, anxiety conditions and trauma. I believe in working with my patients towards optimal health.
(914) 350-5705 View (914) 350-5705
Photo of Katie Jones - Doorways to Peace Pediatrics , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-PC
Doorways to Peace Pediatrics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-PC
Online Only
At Doorways To Peace Pediatrics, we're committed to providing comprehensive, personalized care that helps children heal and thrive. Led by Katie Jones, a dual-certified Pediatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, we offer comprehensive care for children aged 3-17. Our integrative approach combines evidence-based practices and goes beyond just treating symptoms – we advocate for our patients, promoting resilience and enhancing overall wellness through "whole-child" centered care. By combining professional expertise with parental insight, we strive to open doorways to peace for every child under our care.
At Doorways To Peace Pediatrics, we're committed to providing comprehensive, personalized care that helps children heal and thrive. Led by Katie Jones, a dual-certified Pediatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, we offer comprehensive care for children aged 3-17. Our integrative approach combines evidence-based practices and goes beyond just treating symptoms – we advocate for our patients, promoting resilience and enhancing overall wellness through "whole-child" centered care. By combining professional expertise with parental insight, we strive to open doorways to peace for every child under our care.
(646) 506-4153 View (646) 506-4153
Photo of Dr. Amandeep Bhandal - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
West Nyack, NY 10994
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.
(845) 622-6820 View (845) 622-6820
Photo of Sady-Ann Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sady-Ann Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
“As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. With 12 years of nursing experience working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, I understand that mental health is not one-size-fits-all. My approach integrates evidence-based treatment with a focus on the whole person mind, body, and lifestyle to create a personalized plan that promotes lasting wellbeing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing
“As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. With 12 years of nursing experience working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, I understand that mental health is not one-size-fits-all. My approach integrates evidence-based treatment with a focus on the whole person mind, body, and lifestyle to create a personalized plan that promotes lasting wellbeing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other mental health challenges, I am here to support you on your journey toward healing
(845) 412-8352 View (845) 412-8352
Photo of Dr. Fatima Odetalla, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Dr. Fatima Odetalla
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Pomona, NY 10970
Just as lighthouses guide ships in the dark, and through storms, Lighthouse Behavioral Health strives to assist clients who are experiencing mental health issues with navigating life's challenges.
Just as lighthouses guide ships in the dark, and through storms, Lighthouse Behavioral Health strives to assist clients who are experiencing mental health issues with navigating life's challenges.
(845) 640-5321 View (845) 640-5321
Photo of Zhanna Berman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, CHES
Zhanna Berman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, CHES
Pearl River, NY 10965
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 9 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents, and adults.
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 9 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents, and adults.
(845) 415-6649 View (845) 415-6649
Photo of Galina Podluzskaya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Galina Podluzskaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to providing care is centered on a holistic, patient-focused model that prioritizes empathy, trust, and collaboration. I work to create a safe, non-judgmental environment, taking into account each patient’s unique history and experiences, particularly any past trauma. I focus on building resilience by helping individuals develop coping strategies
My approach to providing care is centered on a holistic, patient-focused model that prioritizes empathy, trust, and collaboration. I work to create a safe, non-judgmental environment, taking into account each patient’s unique history and experiences, particularly any past trauma. I focus on building resilience by helping individuals develop coping strategies
(845) 668-6270 View (845) 668-6270
Photo of Elizabeth Piccolo - Elizabeth Piccolo,Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Elizabeth Piccolo,Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
New City, NY 10956
My practice is ideal for those clients seeking a combination of a nursing and medical perspective. I am an advanced practice nurse with a board certification in Family Psychiatry. My license and certification allows me the privledge to prescribe medication while encorporating therapeutic modalities. I am able to treat and diagnose a diverse population with ages ranging from adolescent to geriatric. I have treated individuals with emotional and psychiatric needs including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, child ADHD and adult ADD, Substance Abuse, Post traumatic stress disorder, Anxiety disorders, Sleep disturbance and Alzheimers Dementia.
My practice is ideal for those clients seeking a combination of a nursing and medical perspective. I am an advanced practice nurse with a board certification in Family Psychiatry. My license and certification allows me the privledge to prescribe medication while encorporating therapeutic modalities. I am able to treat and diagnose a diverse population with ages ranging from adolescent to geriatric. I have treated individuals with emotional and psychiatric needs including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, child ADHD and adult ADD, Substance Abuse, Post traumatic stress disorder, Anxiety disorders, Sleep disturbance and Alzheimers Dementia.
(845) 694-7012 View (845) 694-7012

See more therapy options for Rockland County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Rockland County, NY

60+

Average cost per session

$220

Psychiatrists in Rockland County, NY who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
95% Depression
80% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
72% ADHD
72% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Rockland County, NY see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
29% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Rockland 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.