Psychiatrists in Roslyn Heights, NY

Photo of Dr. Jacob Palathinkal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, NP
Dr. Jacob Palathinkal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, NP
1 Endorsed
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression. If your child or loved ones are not able to leave the house, in certain cases, I do make home visits for psychiatric evaluation and medication management.
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression. If your child or loved ones are not able to leave the house, in certain cases, I do make home visits for psychiatric evaluation and medication management.
(516) 373-7896 View (516) 373-7896
Photo of Larissa Yossefi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Larissa Yossefi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
5 Endorsed
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
For those who feel uneasy about DSM-5/ICD-10 labels, I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental space. Together, we explore the patterns that keep you feeling stuck and gently work to remove both inner and outer obstacles to your goals. My approach is integrative, drawing from EMDR, Resource Therapy, BrainspottingPolyvagal and Somatic Experiencing—addressing stress, inflammation, and overall balance. Through a thoughtful evaluation and collaborative treatment, you’ll gain deeper self-understanding, strengthen your resilience, and move confidently forward in your growth.
For those who feel uneasy about DSM-5/ICD-10 labels, I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental space. Together, we explore the patterns that keep you feeling stuck and gently work to remove both inner and outer obstacles to your goals. My approach is integrative, drawing from EMDR, Resource Therapy, BrainspottingPolyvagal and Somatic Experiencing—addressing stress, inflammation, and overall balance. Through a thoughtful evaluation and collaborative treatment, you’ll gain deeper self-understanding, strengthen your resilience, and move confidently forward in your growth.
(516) 715-3176 View (516) 715-3176
Photo of Stephanie English, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Stephanie English
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Online Only
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, licensed psychologist, and life coach with over 30 years of experience as a mental health professional. I work with clients who live in New York State and are considering medication to help them manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, attention deficits, amongst other diagnosis. I work with ALL clients and am particularly a good fit for those who are considering medication for the first time OR whose first experience with medication was less than ideal. I also offer life coaching for those ready to bounce back from depression/anxiety and create their ideal life.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner, licensed psychologist, and life coach with over 30 years of experience as a mental health professional. I work with clients who live in New York State and are considering medication to help them manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, attention deficits, amongst other diagnosis. I work with ALL clients and am particularly a good fit for those who are considering medication for the first time OR whose first experience with medication was less than ideal. I also offer life coaching for those ready to bounce back from depression/anxiety and create their ideal life.
(516) 548-6290 View (516) 548-6290
Photo of Heather Blondin, Psychiatrist, MD
Heather Blondin
Psychiatrist, MD
21 Endorsed
Online Only
My role is to sit with you, listen carefully, and help untangle the things that feel complicated. Together, we’ll look at what’s working, what’s weighing you down, and what tools might make things feel a little lighter. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Some patients need structure and clear strategies, others do better with space to process, and many need a mix of both. We'll work together to figure out what feels right, whether that’s medication, therapy, or a combination. I try to bring the same mix of professionalism and humanity that I would want if I were the one sitting across from a doctor.
My role is to sit with you, listen carefully, and help untangle the things that feel complicated. Together, we’ll look at what’s working, what’s weighing you down, and what tools might make things feel a little lighter. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Some patients need structure and clear strategies, others do better with space to process, and many need a mix of both. We'll work together to figure out what feels right, whether that’s medication, therapy, or a combination. I try to bring the same mix of professionalism and humanity that I would want if I were the one sitting across from a doctor.
(516) 895-4582 View (516) 895-4582
Photo of Mohammed Mazharuddin, Psychiatrist, MD
Mohammed Mazharuddin
Psychiatrist, MD
21 Endorsed
Online Only
As board certified psychiatrist with a decade of experience, I've learned that my first priority should always to listen carefully. Everyone deserves compassionate, individualized care. It's important for me to understand who you are, not just your symptoms. With over ten years of experience across hospitals, community clinics and private practice, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals facing many mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and the unique challenges that come with significant life transitions or medical conditions.
As board certified psychiatrist with a decade of experience, I've learned that my first priority should always to listen carefully. Everyone deserves compassionate, individualized care. It's important for me to understand who you are, not just your symptoms. With over ten years of experience across hospitals, community clinics and private practice, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals facing many mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and the unique challenges that come with significant life transitions or medical conditions.
(347) 997-1803 View (347) 997-1803
Photo of Kari Hancock, Psychiatrist, MD
Kari Hancock
Psychiatrist, MD
21 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Dr. Kari Hancock. I’m a psychiatrist with over twenty years of experience working with adults and teens. I help people find steadier ground in the middle of mental health challenges. Psychiatry isn’t just about medication. It’s about listening carefully, understanding your story, and finding practical ways to improve your life and how you feel. I’m curious about what matters to you - not just your symptoms. Sometimes that means talking through things, sometimes we'll explore medication. Often, it’s both. My goal is for you to feel supported, understood, and in control of your mental health.
Hi, I’m Dr. Kari Hancock. I’m a psychiatrist with over twenty years of experience working with adults and teens. I help people find steadier ground in the middle of mental health challenges. Psychiatry isn’t just about medication. It’s about listening carefully, understanding your story, and finding practical ways to improve your life and how you feel. I’m curious about what matters to you - not just your symptoms. Sometimes that means talking through things, sometimes we'll explore medication. Often, it’s both. My goal is for you to feel supported, understood, and in control of your mental health.
(646) 600-5214 View (646) 600-5214
Photo of Daphne Wang, Psychiatrist, MD
Daphne Wang
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am Dr. Daphne Wang. I believe in a warm, collaborative approach, where I spend time getting to know and truly understand my patients and together with my clinical expertise, provide expertly tailored treatments. My training allows me to understand a person from their developmental beginnings and how they are shaped by biological, psychological and sociological aspects of their lives. I am also fluent in Mandarin and have extensive experience working with Chinese speaking patients and recognize the importance of providing culturally sensitive care.
Hello, I am Dr. Daphne Wang. I believe in a warm, collaborative approach, where I spend time getting to know and truly understand my patients and together with my clinical expertise, provide expertly tailored treatments. My training allows me to understand a person from their developmental beginnings and how they are shaped by biological, psychological and sociological aspects of their lives. I am also fluent in Mandarin and have extensive experience working with Chinese speaking patients and recognize the importance of providing culturally sensitive care.
(929) 605-5381 View (929) 605-5381

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Michele Toth, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Michele Toth
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Michele Toth is board certified in both Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from the University of Texas in Galveston, completed residency in Dallas, and a fellowship in Austin. With over 35 years of experience in outpatient, inpatient, residential, and school settings, she has served as Medical Director and a past examiner for the National Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Toth is passionate about psychiatry and draws from extensive training in multiple therapies, family systems, and psychopharmacology.
Dr. Michele Toth is board certified in both Adult and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from the University of Texas in Galveston, completed residency in Dallas, and a fellowship in Austin. With over 35 years of experience in outpatient, inpatient, residential, and school settings, she has served as Medical Director and a past examiner for the National Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Toth is passionate about psychiatry and draws from extensive training in multiple therapies, family systems, and psychopharmacology.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
Photo of Dr. Kimia Pourrezaei, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Kimia Pourrezaei
Psychiatrist, DO
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Dr. Pourrezaei is an NYU trained double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. In her practice, Dr. Pourrezaei prioritizes creating a safe, nurturing, and playful environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, understood, and seen. She recognizes the unique narrative of each person and tailors her approach accordingly, ensuring that treatment plans are thoughtfully crafted to meet their needs.
Dr. Pourrezaei is an NYU trained double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult, adolescent, and child psychiatry. In her practice, Dr. Pourrezaei prioritizes creating a safe, nurturing, and playful environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, understood, and seen. She recognizes the unique narrative of each person and tailors her approach accordingly, ensuring that treatment plans are thoughtfully crafted to meet their needs.
(929) 407-3736 View (929) 407-3736
Photo of Steven Carroll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Steven Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Nyack, NY 10960
Steve Carroll is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. He serves clients across the lifespan and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Addiction, and other mood disorders. Steve specializes in the care of clients within the LGBTQ community, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Steve was a 2020 recipient of the Ken Dunning Trauma Informed Care Commissioner’s Award, a distinguished honor bestowed by the New York Department of Health for practitioners who provide medical services to trauma survivors.
Steve Carroll is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. He serves clients across the lifespan and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Addiction, and other mood disorders. Steve specializes in the care of clients within the LGBTQ community, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Steve was a 2020 recipient of the Ken Dunning Trauma Informed Care Commissioner’s Award, a distinguished honor bestowed by the New York Department of Health for practitioners who provide medical services to trauma survivors.
(206) 672-1970 View (206) 672-1970
Photo of Jamey Levy, Psychiatrist, MD
Jamey Levy
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
I maintain a private practice in psychotherapy & psychopharmacology, and am affiliated with NYU Langone Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital. I have received numerous awards & fellowships which have afforded me the opportunity to study the biological underpinning of mental illness. As such, I have an extensive background in psychopharmacology & the neuroscience of mental illness.
I maintain a private practice in psychotherapy & psychopharmacology, and am affiliated with NYU Langone Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital. I have received numerous awards & fellowships which have afforded me the opportunity to study the biological underpinning of mental illness. As such, I have an extensive background in psychopharmacology & the neuroscience of mental illness.
(347) 719-1506 View (347) 719-1506
Photo of Kenneth Paul Rosenberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Kenneth Paul Rosenberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My practice provides outpatient care for addictions, sexual disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, cognitive impairments, and psychotic disorders. While we promote psychotherapeutic and holistic treatments, we also offer medications when suitable. We may prescribe non-addictive medicines to control cravings, prevent relapse, treat sleep disorders, manage anxiety and improve mood. Our treatment consists of evidence-based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral approaches to identify triggers, dialectical behavioral techniques to manage
My practice provides outpatient care for addictions, sexual disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, cognitive impairments, and psychotic disorders. While we promote psychotherapeutic and holistic treatments, we also offer medications when suitable. We may prescribe non-addictive medicines to control cravings, prevent relapse, treat sleep disorders, manage anxiety and improve mood. Our treatment consists of evidence-based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral approaches to identify triggers, dialectical behavioral techniques to manage
(914) 350-4091 View (914) 350-4091
Photo of Dr. Lesha D Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lesha D Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10174
I am a psychiatrist with over a decade of experience with children, adolescents and adults, and am dually board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I provide comprehensive evaluation and diagnostic assessment as well as ongoing treatment utilizing evidence-based modalities including medication management and psychotherapy. I am committed to collaborative development of treatment plans tailored to your personal goals. I am available for remote and on-site appointments with evening and weekend availability.
I am a psychiatrist with over a decade of experience with children, adolescents and adults, and am dually board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I provide comprehensive evaluation and diagnostic assessment as well as ongoing treatment utilizing evidence-based modalities including medication management and psychotherapy. I am committed to collaborative development of treatment plans tailored to your personal goals. I am available for remote and on-site appointments with evening and weekend availability.
(929) 470-1513 View (929) 470-1513
Photo of Jeremy R Mack, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeremy R Mack
Psychiatrist, MD
New York, NY 10128
Medication for psychological disorders can provide temporary symptomatic relief; however, according to research, only when used in combination with psychotherapy will patients achieve lasting results. I am a psychiatrist who provides therapy as well as medication. In my many decades of practice with adults, children, and the geriatric population, I have used this approach successfully to treat depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and issues of aging. My approach includes dynamic psychotherapy, DBT, family therapy, and medication.
Medication for psychological disorders can provide temporary symptomatic relief; however, according to research, only when used in combination with psychotherapy will patients achieve lasting results. I am a psychiatrist who provides therapy as well as medication. In my many decades of practice with adults, children, and the geriatric population, I have used this approach successfully to treat depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, adjustment disorders, and issues of aging. My approach includes dynamic psychotherapy, DBT, family therapy, and medication.
(212) 987-2815 View (212) 987-2815
Marie Rose Bhuiyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-, BC
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been in private practice since 2011. This practice was initiated in response to the growing need for outpatient mental health services specifically to Muslim (but not limited to) patients that are inclusive, and integrate religiously, spiritually and culturally sensitive treatments. My services are open to anyone who is experiencing psychological issues, or anyone who has been diagnosed with psychiatric and mental illness.
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been in private practice since 2011. This practice was initiated in response to the growing need for outpatient mental health services specifically to Muslim (but not limited to) patients that are inclusive, and integrate religiously, spiritually and culturally sensitive treatments. My services are open to anyone who is experiencing psychological issues, or anyone who has been diagnosed with psychiatric and mental illness.
(516) 209-4525 View (516) 209-4525
Photo of John Shershow - John C Shershow, M.D. Expert Add/Adhd Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist, MD
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I specialize in treating ADD and ADHD. I was educated at Harvard, Yale, and the University of Southern California. I practiced for many years in Boston, and was on the faculty of Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. I came to New York 26 years ago to become the Associate Dean of Downstate Medical School. I currently am in private practice in New York City, focusing on treating ADD and ADHD.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I specialize in treating ADD and ADHD. I was educated at Harvard, Yale, and the University of Southern California. I practiced for many years in Boston, and was on the faculty of Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. I came to New York 26 years ago to become the Associate Dean of Downstate Medical School. I currently am in private practice in New York City, focusing on treating ADD and ADHD.
(646) 681-3965 View (646) 681-3965
Photo of Shelley Padgett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Shelley Padgett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Shelley Padgett is a warm and compassionate psychiatric provider. Her approach to treatment follows a wholistic model that combines talk therapy and medication as needed. She enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level. She creates a space that is safe and free of judgement. Shelley is down to earth and through empathy, she forms meaningful connections with her patients. Shelly has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is highly skilled in psychopharmacology. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD.
Shelley Padgett is a warm and compassionate psychiatric provider. Her approach to treatment follows a wholistic model that combines talk therapy and medication as needed. She enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level. She creates a space that is safe and free of judgement. Shelley is down to earth and through empathy, she forms meaningful connections with her patients. Shelly has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is highly skilled in psychopharmacology. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD.
(929) 556-2557 View (929) 556-2557
Photo of Alison Lenet, Psychiatrist, MD
Alison Lenet
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
Welcome! I am a Columbia and Cornell trained, Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist. Whether you are seeking an evaluation, psychotherapy, or thoughtful medication management, I provide a safe environment to talk and help you reach your goals.
Welcome! I am a Columbia and Cornell trained, Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist. Whether you are seeking an evaluation, psychotherapy, or thoughtful medication management, I provide a safe environment to talk and help you reach your goals.
(646) 916-3864 View (646) 916-3864
Photo of Dr. Sophie C. Ebel, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Sophie C. Ebel
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist based in New York City. I completed my Adult Psychiatry residency at Columbia University Irving Medical Center and my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at Weill Cornell and Columbia University Medical Centers. I am accepting child, adolescent, and adult clients. I have expertise in both talk therapy and medication management for a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist based in New York City. I completed my Adult Psychiatry residency at Columbia University Irving Medical Center and my Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at Weill Cornell and Columbia University Medical Centers. I am accepting child, adolescent, and adult clients. I have expertise in both talk therapy and medication management for a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD.
(914) 313-8464 View (914) 313-8464
Photo of Ruth Emily Geller, Psychiatrist, MD
Ruth Emily Geller
Psychiatrist, MD
Brooklyn, NY 11217
As a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I treat individuals of all ages, with both medication and psychotherapy, as appropriate. Whether you are seeking care for yourself or your child, it is important that you feel confidence and trust in me if I'm to be of help. I strongly believe (and research shows!) that the most important factor in successful outcomes is the therapeutic relationship. I encourage you to ask questions, trust your gut, and take time to determine if you feel comfortable. I appreciate that speaking with a psychiatrist may not be easy and takes courage.
As a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist, I treat individuals of all ages, with both medication and psychotherapy, as appropriate. Whether you are seeking care for yourself or your child, it is important that you feel confidence and trust in me if I'm to be of help. I strongly believe (and research shows!) that the most important factor in successful outcomes is the therapeutic relationship. I encourage you to ask questions, trust your gut, and take time to determine if you feel comfortable. I appreciate that speaking with a psychiatrist may not be easy and takes courage.
(347) 673-0386 View (347) 673-0386

See more therapy options for Roslyn Heights

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Roslyn Heights, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Roslyn Heights, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
86% ADHD
86% Medication Management
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Roslyn Heights, NY see their clients

71% Online Only
29% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Roslyn Heights?

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.