Psychiatrists in Roosevelt, NY

Photo of Vivette Fletcher-Harriott - PMHNP, INC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
PMHNP, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
I am a licensed, board certified advance family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individuals, 6 years and older. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
I am a licensed, board certified advance family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individuals, 6 years and older. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
(646) 762-5035 View (646) 762-5035

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lily Tung, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Lily Tung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Online Only
Evening and Sunday hours available! I provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Call for your free 15 minutes consultation online Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, panic attacks, and sleep issues, often feeling like no one fully understands their experiences. I take the time to listen without judgment, offering care that is compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, I understand the unique challenges faced by Asians and people of color.
Evening and Sunday hours available! I provide a safe, supportive space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Call for your free 15 minutes consultation online Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, panic attacks, and sleep issues, often feeling like no one fully understands their experiences. I take the time to listen without judgment, offering care that is compassionate, patient-centered, and culturally sensitive. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, I understand the unique challenges faced by Asians and people of color.
(347) 934-4379 View (347) 934-4379
Photo of Daniel Moldwin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Daniel Moldwin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Rockville Centre, NY 11570
I am a Duke University trained psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management for individuals 18 years and older. Building strong trusting relationships, providing education, and engaging in client-centered care are all important aspects of my treatment approach. My goal is to optimize each person’s quality of life, helping people to feel happier and more fulfilled. I am proud to provide clients across New York State with easily accessible, affordable, quality mental health care. xx Now offering Spravato therapy for patients struggling with Treatment Resistant Depression xx
I am a Duke University trained psychiatric nurse practitioner offering medication management for individuals 18 years and older. Building strong trusting relationships, providing education, and engaging in client-centered care are all important aspects of my treatment approach. My goal is to optimize each person’s quality of life, helping people to feel happier and more fulfilled. I am proud to provide clients across New York State with easily accessible, affordable, quality mental health care. xx Now offering Spravato therapy for patients struggling with Treatment Resistant Depression xx
(516) 548-6133 View (516) 548-6133
Photo of Irene Tetzlaff, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Irene Tetzlaff
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
New Hyde Park, NY 11042
Irene Tetzlaff is a skilled and compassionate clinician. She specializes in psychotherapeutic methods and medication management for adults, seniors, children and adolescents. Irene utilizes a holistic approach to wellness, treating her clients as individuals and not simply a list of symptoms to be treated. She employs modern telepsychiatry platforms for her client visits. Irene has served patients in both Pennsylvania and New York. Her patients have uniformly provided glowing reviews of her care. They feel she demonstrates true compassion and empathy.
Irene Tetzlaff is a skilled and compassionate clinician. She specializes in psychotherapeutic methods and medication management for adults, seniors, children and adolescents. Irene utilizes a holistic approach to wellness, treating her clients as individuals and not simply a list of symptoms to be treated. She employs modern telepsychiatry platforms for her client visits. Irene has served patients in both Pennsylvania and New York. Her patients have uniformly provided glowing reviews of her care. They feel she demonstrates true compassion and empathy.
(646) 849-7058 View (646) 849-7058
Photo of Dr. Evelyn M Rodriguez Thomas - Grand Strand Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBA
Grand Strand Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MBA
New York, NY 10001
I'm passionate about working with people to ensure they have the tools and resilience they need to thrive and succeed. Increasing demands on all of us, particularly young people and families, have placed unprecedented challenges and coping with them can be difficult. I take a comprehensive approach and spend the time necessary to tailor the best treatment plan for you. I have a deep interest in helping you to cope successfully with anxiety, panic disorder, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, and other mental health issues with therapy and the judicious use of selection of medication when needed.
I'm passionate about working with people to ensure they have the tools and resilience they need to thrive and succeed. Increasing demands on all of us, particularly young people and families, have placed unprecedented challenges and coping with them can be difficult. I take a comprehensive approach and spend the time necessary to tailor the best treatment plan for you. I have a deep interest in helping you to cope successfully with anxiety, panic disorder, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, and other mental health issues with therapy and the judicious use of selection of medication when needed.
(843) 279-4698 View (843) 279-4698
Photo of Ashley Neal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Ashley! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in NY (license No. 404795). I specialize in trauma-informed care and focus on helping people manage anxiety, depression, and PTSD. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where healing and growth can truly happen. My approach to care is centered around understanding the whole person, not just the symptoms. I combine practical, evidence-based psychopharmacology with some CBT and humanistic traditions, which focus on emotions and personal strengths. Together, we'll find a path that feels right for you.
Hi there, I'm Ashley! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in NY (license No. 404795). I specialize in trauma-informed care and focus on helping people manage anxiety, depression, and PTSD. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where healing and growth can truly happen. My approach to care is centered around understanding the whole person, not just the symptoms. I combine practical, evidence-based psychopharmacology with some CBT and humanistic traditions, which focus on emotions and personal strengths. Together, we'll find a path that feels right for you.
(914) 430-0852 View (914) 430-0852
Photo of Jessica Staco, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Staco
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I take a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. I typically work with adult patients who suffer from anxiety (including PTSD, OCD, panic disorder), major depressive disorder, and ADHD.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I take a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. I typically work with adult patients who suffer from anxiety (including PTSD, OCD, panic disorder), major depressive disorder, and ADHD.
(929) 492-2294 View (929) 492-2294
Photo of Nabil Rezk, Psychiatrist, MD
Nabil Rezk
Psychiatrist, MD
Astoria, NY 11103
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
(347) 609-7773 View (347) 609-7773
Photo of Karen B Rosenbaum, Psychiatrist, MD
Karen B Rosenbaum
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10010
I treat people with difficulties in relationships, work, school, and social settings. I have an eclectic style in psychotherapy, with a psychodynamic focus, as well as administer medication when necessary. I will incorporate techniques to help with changing habits, lifestyle, and to encourage healthier coping skills. I also specialize in treating people with trauma in their background which is also helpful during this stressful time of forced isolation and collective fear.
I treat people with difficulties in relationships, work, school, and social settings. I have an eclectic style in psychotherapy, with a psychodynamic focus, as well as administer medication when necessary. I will incorporate techniques to help with changing habits, lifestyle, and to encourage healthier coping skills. I also specialize in treating people with trauma in their background which is also helpful during this stressful time of forced isolation and collective fear.
(917) 791-4185 View (917) 791-4185
Photo of Dr. Misty Stafford, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Misty Stafford
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
(617) 431-4864 View (617) 431-4864
Photo of Hisla Bates - Hisla Bates, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Hisla Bates, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Heart to Heart Psychiatry: A Holistic and Integrative Approach to Healing If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of stress? I'm here to help with a whole body approach to mental health—helping you not just manage symptoms, but truly flourish. I work collaboratively on lifestyle changes, including nutrition, movement, and mindfulness, to enhance your well-being. Medication management in conjunction with psychotherapy, with a personalized approach. If you're looking to safely reduce or taper off medications, I can guide you through that process with care. I work with artists and creatives in all fields.
Heart to Heart Psychiatry: A Holistic and Integrative Approach to Healing If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of stress? I'm here to help with a whole body approach to mental health—helping you not just manage symptoms, but truly flourish. I work collaboratively on lifestyle changes, including nutrition, movement, and mindfulness, to enhance your well-being. Medication management in conjunction with psychotherapy, with a personalized approach. If you're looking to safely reduce or taper off medications, I can guide you through that process with care. I work with artists and creatives in all fields.
(929) 357-1796 View (929) 357-1796
Melanie Schwarz
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I have extensive experience in working with patients who are struggling with Depression, Anxiety and Relationship issues. I provide both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I have a particular expertise in working with patients with concurrent medical issues. This includes women struggling with REPRODUCTIVE ISSUES, including infertility, antepartum and postpartum depression, menapause. I also specialize in patients with chronic medical illnesses including but not limited to Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer and end of life issues.
I have extensive experience in working with patients who are struggling with Depression, Anxiety and Relationship issues. I provide both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I have a particular expertise in working with patients with concurrent medical issues. This includes women struggling with REPRODUCTIVE ISSUES, including infertility, antepartum and postpartum depression, menapause. I also specialize in patients with chronic medical illnesses including but not limited to Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer and end of life issues.
(646) 600-8219 View (646) 600-8219
Photo of Dr. Lindsay Legnon, Psychiatrist
Dr. Lindsay Legnon
Psychiatrist
Online Only
Dr. Lindsay Legnon is board-certified in Psychiatry and has 15 years of experience in outpatient clinical psychiatry. Her focus is primarily on medication management, but she does incorporate brief cognitive behavioral therapy and supportive therapy when appropriate. If more extensive psychotherapy is felt to be beneficial, she will recommend a therapist and collaborate with them for optimal care.
Dr. Lindsay Legnon is board-certified in Psychiatry and has 15 years of experience in outpatient clinical psychiatry. Her focus is primarily on medication management, but she does incorporate brief cognitive behavioral therapy and supportive therapy when appropriate. If more extensive psychotherapy is felt to be beneficial, she will recommend a therapist and collaborate with them for optimal care.
(332) 223-8983 View (332) 223-8983
Photo of Tuwain Kolleh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, NP
Tuwain Kolleh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, NP
New York, NY 10011
As an adult psychiatrist and mental health nurse practitioner, I have a deep-rooted passion for providing quality and compassionate care to individuals navigating mental health challenges. My over 13 years of experience in New York and New Jersey have developed and reinforced a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by mental health patients. I have tailored my work around virtual consultation, serving clients facing anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, personality disorder, mood disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
As an adult psychiatrist and mental health nurse practitioner, I have a deep-rooted passion for providing quality and compassionate care to individuals navigating mental health challenges. My over 13 years of experience in New York and New Jersey have developed and reinforced a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by mental health patients. I have tailored my work around virtual consultation, serving clients facing anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, personality disorder, mood disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
(646) 718-3046 View (646) 718-3046
Photo of Trina Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Trina Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Online Only
I value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my clients. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my clients with as many tools as possible for future successes. As a George Washington University trained nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience, in various settings, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual's particular circumstances and goals. I understand that we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences.
I value the opportunity to build strong, therapeutic relationships with my clients. I strive to optimize a holistic approach, combining both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Medications are just one piece of the puzzle, as I work to provide my clients with as many tools as possible for future successes. As a George Washington University trained nurse practitioner with over 30 years of clinical experience, in various settings, I tailor my therapeutic approach to the individual's particular circumstances and goals. I understand that we are all unique, with vastly different lived experiences.
(914) 730-5973 View (914) 730-5973
Photo of Rayner Berrios, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Rayner Berrios
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
New York, NY 10003
Rayner A. Berrios, PMHNP-BC is a bilingual Columbia trained Spanish-speaking Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who understands the importance of providing culturally competent care. He is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10+ years of experience working in hospitals and clinical settings. Mr. Berrios tailors treatment to the individual based on evidence based practice in psychopharmacology along with supportive, solution therapy. Working with Rayner, patients can expect a warm, participatory and respectful style that empowers them toward their mental health goal.
Rayner A. Berrios, PMHNP-BC is a bilingual Columbia trained Spanish-speaking Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who understands the importance of providing culturally competent care. He is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10+ years of experience working in hospitals and clinical settings. Mr. Berrios tailors treatment to the individual based on evidence based practice in psychopharmacology along with supportive, solution therapy. Working with Rayner, patients can expect a warm, participatory and respectful style that empowers them toward their mental health goal.
(347) 527-4592 View (347) 527-4592
Photo of Roberta Zanzonico, Psychiatrist, MD
Roberta Zanzonico
Psychiatrist, MD
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, teacher, and published author. I offer treatments designed for adults and older adults, and I have a dedicated focus on reproductive psychiatry. I have trained between Italy and the United States, where I conducted research at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School and ultimately completed my training at the University of Southern California. In 2020, I became a Clinical Instructor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. I perfected my training and gained a second board certification in Consultation and Liaison Psychiatry, which focuses on complex clinical scenarios.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, teacher, and published author. I offer treatments designed for adults and older adults, and I have a dedicated focus on reproductive psychiatry. I have trained between Italy and the United States, where I conducted research at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School and ultimately completed my training at the University of Southern California. In 2020, I became a Clinical Instructor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. I perfected my training and gained a second board certification in Consultation and Liaison Psychiatry, which focuses on complex clinical scenarios.
(727) 261-2256 View (727) 261-2256
Photo of Summer Paradise, Psychiatrist, MD
Summer Paradise
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I will work with you to find holistic and humanistic approaches to achieving wellness. At the core of many symptoms, there is trauma and grief, and I will support you in your efforts to heal and construct a life that feels authentic. I will also offer medications that are appropriate when needed.
I will work with you to find holistic and humanistic approaches to achieving wellness. At the core of many symptoms, there is trauma and grief, and I will support you in your efforts to heal and construct a life that feels authentic. I will also offer medications that are appropriate when needed.
(203) 717-5910 View (203) 717-5910
Photo of Anthony Caruso, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
Anthony Caruso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
New York, NY 10128
Anthony has been working in psychiatry for over 10 years. He is a skilled clinician that utilizes a biopsychosocial model to help people improve their lives. He is on staff at Mount Sinai hospital, working in the Faculty Practice and the Depression and Anxiety Center (DAC) of Mount Sinai. In his private practice, he treats a variety of conditions, ranging from mood disorders to ADHD. He holds a ANCC board certification in psychiatry.
Anthony has been working in psychiatry for over 10 years. He is a skilled clinician that utilizes a biopsychosocial model to help people improve their lives. He is on staff at Mount Sinai hospital, working in the Faculty Practice and the Depression and Anxiety Center (DAC) of Mount Sinai. In his private practice, he treats a variety of conditions, ranging from mood disorders to ADHD. He holds a ANCC board certification in psychiatry.
(646) 233-0293 View (646) 233-0293
Photo of Quilvio Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Quilvio Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(914) 340-2126 View (914) 340-2126

See more therapy options for Roosevelt

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Roosevelt, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Roosevelt, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Medication Management

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Roosevelt, NY see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Roosevelt?

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.