Psychiatrists in Rye Brook, NY
![Photo of Stephen L Stern, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c477a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thanks very much for viewing my profile. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who's very knowledgeable about helping people with depression, bipolar disorder, medical illnesses, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition to medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy, I'm also interested in the complementary use of meditation, mindfulness, exercise, light therapy, and companion animals. I believe that the key to successful treatment is a thorough biological, psychological, and social assessment followed by shared decision-making between patient and doctor. Please feel free to contact me for a phone consultation at no charge.
Thanks very much for viewing my profile. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who's very knowledgeable about helping people with depression, bipolar disorder, medical illnesses, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition to medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy, I'm also interested in the complementary use of meditation, mindfulness, exercise, light therapy, and companion animals. I believe that the key to successful treatment is a thorough biological, psychological, and social assessment followed by shared decision-making between patient and doctor. Please feel free to contact me for a phone consultation at no charge.
![Photo of David Andrew Stern, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbe6392c-174a-48e2-aa74-de81c6730bad/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Columbia and Albert Einstein trained, board certified adult psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. In addition to working with patients, I am actively engaged in teaching and supervising younger psychiatrists and psychologists.
I am a Columbia and Albert Einstein trained, board certified adult psychiatrist and psychoanalyst. In addition to working with patients, I am actively engaged in teaching and supervising younger psychiatrists and psychologists.
![Photo of Dara Fernandez, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ee80685-d4d8-4b03-a4f6-b4f7b2dbb14d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dara Fernandez is an experienced bilingual (Spanish), double board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, sought after for her caring and warm nature; therapeutic and professional persona; and ability to provide expert mental health care. Her experience spans a wide breadth of clinical experience: academic psychiatry, child and adolescent’s mental health, college/young adult mental health, eating disorder inpatient and outpatient care, acute psychiatric inpatient care, outpatient psychotherapy, and medication management.
Dr. Dara Fernandez is an experienced bilingual (Spanish), double board certified Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, sought after for her caring and warm nature; therapeutic and professional persona; and ability to provide expert mental health care. Her experience spans a wide breadth of clinical experience: academic psychiatry, child and adolescent’s mental health, college/young adult mental health, eating disorder inpatient and outpatient care, acute psychiatric inpatient care, outpatient psychotherapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Arashinder Dhaliwal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5455c818-2484-4c82-a7f2-20fdd0d4fa27/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board certified in Adult and Child psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have 12+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. I believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. I partner with patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy.
I am Board certified in Adult and Child psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have 12+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. I believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. I partner with patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy.
![Photo of Carline Lamour-Occean, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f3f22ff-8d18-4e49-9088-8f5680fe8324/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carline Lamour-Occean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Rye Brook, NY 10573 (Online Only)
Overcoming mental health challenge can seem unsurmountable; however, the first and often most difficult step is to get help. I am a double board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner with multiple years of experience in the field, I specialize in the relationship between the mind and the body, and work with my patients to find the best solutions to move towards, health, and wholeness. I provide medication management to address all psychiatric diagnosis.
Overcoming mental health challenge can seem unsurmountable; however, the first and often most difficult step is to get help. I am a double board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner with multiple years of experience in the field, I specialize in the relationship between the mind and the body, and work with my patients to find the best solutions to move towards, health, and wholeness. I provide medication management to address all psychiatric diagnosis.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy (Online Psychiatrist), MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b7eeceb-a338-4bc4-9634-5baabe999815/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gundu Reddy (Online Psychiatrist)
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rye Brook, NY 10573 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Practicing in New York City. Due to requests, I have started providing tele-psychiatry services in Tennessee. I have really enjoyed learning meeting my patients in the South and learning a new culture and way of life. I have trained in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, depression, irritability, anxiety, OCD insomnia, wanting to perform better at work the core principles of symptom treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Margarette Dessources, DNP, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdaf5e09-6dea-44cf-a73e-e17a0f1303d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margarette Dessources
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Rye Brook, NY 10573
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have nine years of experience in treatment of mental disorders across the lifespan. My areas of expertise include; Diagnosis and treatment for Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, OCD and trauma-related disorders, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I work primarily in underserved communities in New York. My approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment. I utilize an integrative model that draws upon cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness based copying strategies.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner, with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. I have nine years of experience in treatment of mental disorders across the lifespan. My areas of expertise include; Diagnosis and treatment for Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, OCD and trauma-related disorders, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I work primarily in underserved communities in New York. My approach is grounded in evidence-based treatment. I utilize an integrative model that draws upon cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness based copying strategies.
![Photo of Adam Elias, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50229ded-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist, and completed psychiatric residency at Harvard Medical School. I provide comprehensive treatment for a range of mental health concerns, and provide services for a range of ages from early to late adulthood. I am trained and experienced in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. My professional interests include meditation, mindfulness, and using nature and the natural world in mental health.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist, and completed psychiatric residency at Harvard Medical School. I provide comprehensive treatment for a range of mental health concerns, and provide services for a range of ages from early to late adulthood. I am trained and experienced in both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. My professional interests include meditation, mindfulness, and using nature and the natural world in mental health.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Edisa Korac, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92bab3f-3775-4fe1-abc6-684525bd348a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edisa Korac is a Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BA in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude), a BSN in Nursing (Magna Cum Laude), and an MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Magna Cum Laude) from Hunter College. As a health professional for over 7 years, Edisa has seen so much suffering but has also seen the natural human propensity to veer towards hope. Hope keeps us all going and it's the driving force behind why she is where she is today. Edisa can empathize with clients and instill hope with her holistic view of health.
Edisa Korac is a Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2015. She has a BA in Psychology (Summa Cum Laude), a BSN in Nursing (Magna Cum Laude), and an MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Magna Cum Laude) from Hunter College. As a health professional for over 7 years, Edisa has seen so much suffering but has also seen the natural human propensity to veer towards hope. Hope keeps us all going and it's the driving force behind why she is where she is today. Edisa can empathize with clients and instill hope with her holistic view of health.
![Photo of Karen G. Gennaro, MD, MBA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44fd2b90-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
AS A PSYCHIATRIST WHO IS ALSO A PSYCHOANALYST, I can help you better understand the root of your issues and develop methods for coping and moving forward. I will offer treatment tailored to your specific needs to help you maximize your unique strengths and shore up any vulnerabilities. Together we will work to enhance your sense of individuality, community and personal freedom. You will gain the strength to finally break out of old habits and release new potentials. Although I am an expert using psychiatric medication, I ONLY OFFER MEDICATION MANAGEMENT TO PEOPLE WILLING TO WORK WITH ME IN AT LEAST ONCE WEEKLY THERAPY.
AS A PSYCHIATRIST WHO IS ALSO A PSYCHOANALYST, I can help you better understand the root of your issues and develop methods for coping and moving forward. I will offer treatment tailored to your specific needs to help you maximize your unique strengths and shore up any vulnerabilities. Together we will work to enhance your sense of individuality, community and personal freedom. You will gain the strength to finally break out of old habits and release new potentials. Although I am an expert using psychiatric medication, I ONLY OFFER MEDICATION MANAGEMENT TO PEOPLE WILLING TO WORK WITH ME IN AT LEAST ONCE WEEKLY THERAPY.
![Photo of Christopher S. Aloezos - Christopher S. Aloezos, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21725593-d839-45b4-bfea-fe1698fe2d9a/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist board certified in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry and provide comprehensive mental health treatment for adults - including psychotherapy and medication management, when indicated. I combine evidence-based treatment with person-centered care, and understand the intrinsic importance of the doctor-patient alliance. While I am a mental health expert, I know that each patient brings their unique life story, culture, and perspective to their mental health needs. In doing so, I work together with my patients to build insight and ultimately achieve treatment goals.
I am a psychiatrist board certified in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry and provide comprehensive mental health treatment for adults - including psychotherapy and medication management, when indicated. I combine evidence-based treatment with person-centered care, and understand the intrinsic importance of the doctor-patient alliance. While I am a mental health expert, I know that each patient brings their unique life story, culture, and perspective to their mental health needs. In doing so, I work together with my patients to build insight and ultimately achieve treatment goals.
![Photo of Arjun Viswanathan, PMHNPBC, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d84b136-aefe-49b4-80dd-71bcf3dd59a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arjun Viswanathan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
What you'll quickly learn is that I am a strong patient advocate! My ideal patient values a compassionate, individualized approach to mental health and is committed to understanding themselves and their journey. They aim to regain control, build resilience, and enhance their well-being, recognizing the importance of recharging, restoring, and rebounding. They value the connection between mind and body for long-term success and appreciate personalized care that meets them where they are, respects their journey, and strengthens their inherent strengths, all while working towards a sustainable future vision. They feel empowered after!
What you'll quickly learn is that I am a strong patient advocate! My ideal patient values a compassionate, individualized approach to mental health and is committed to understanding themselves and their journey. They aim to regain control, build resilience, and enhance their well-being, recognizing the importance of recharging, restoring, and rebounding. They value the connection between mind and body for long-term success and appreciate personalized care that meets them where they are, respects their journey, and strengthens their inherent strengths, all while working towards a sustainable future vision. They feel empowered after!
![Photo of Aleyamma John - Johns wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/603c164f-9da0-40bc-b645-515bc4f6650b/1/320x400.png)
Life can be filled with ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. During these times, it is crucial to have a compassionate presence to lean on. Whether you're seeking advice, a listening ear, or simply a comforting virtual presence, I am here to provide that support. Remember, you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is in these moments that a supportive person can make a world of difference. It is my purpose to be part of that journey, extending a virtual hand to help you navigate whatever you may be going through.
Life can be filled with ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. During these times, it is crucial to have a compassionate presence to lean on. Whether you're seeking advice, a listening ear, or simply a comforting virtual presence, I am here to provide that support. Remember, you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is in these moments that a supportive person can make a world of difference. It is my purpose to be part of that journey, extending a virtual hand to help you navigate whatever you may be going through.
![Photo of Hallie Knopf, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0f0c820-6510-4ec0-9126-2fc9df56a9d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hallie Knopf is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Knopf completed her undergraduate studies at Washington University in St. Louis and received her medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. She completed an adult psychiatry residency training program at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Knopf specializes in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, which includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual symptoms.
Dr. Hallie Knopf is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Knopf completed her undergraduate studies at Washington University in St. Louis and received her medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. She completed an adult psychiatry residency training program at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Knopf specializes in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, which includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual symptoms.
![Photo of Arashinder Dhaliwal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d526ce5-0993-4f55-920a-c31577a419d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arashinder Dhaliwal has 10+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. He believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. He partners with his patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy. He has special interest in anxiety, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, first break psychosis, trauma associated mental health disorders and ADHD.
Arashinder Dhaliwal has 10+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. He believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. He partners with his patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy. He has special interest in anxiety, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, first break psychosis, trauma associated mental health disorders and ADHD.
![Photo of Anna Filova, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5364dca0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an adult psychiatrist with many years of experience. After working in inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs for almost 15 years, I have chosen to focus on my private practice, where I can make a personal difference in the lives of my patients. I do not believe in medication-only treatment. I feel that each of my patients has very unique issues and problems, and needs to be treated as an individual, without one-size-fits-all solutions. I focus on getting to know my patients and creating an individualized treatment plan.
I am an adult psychiatrist with many years of experience. After working in inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs for almost 15 years, I have chosen to focus on my private practice, where I can make a personal difference in the lives of my patients. I do not believe in medication-only treatment. I feel that each of my patients has very unique issues and problems, and needs to be treated as an individual, without one-size-fits-all solutions. I focus on getting to know my patients and creating an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Sifat Ameen, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dee87a7-909a-4068-ae10-f34cfb4ed1f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sifat Ameen is a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is dedicated about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing medications if indicated, for young adults and adult population. Her ongoing areas of interest include integrating nutrition , physical movement and improved sleep practices as foundations and multi-level response for care. Overall Sifat tends to be more conservative in her prescribing practices, especially in regards to prescribing controlled substances.
Sifat Ameen is a board-certified, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She is dedicated about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, including brief psychotherapy and prescribing medications if indicated, for young adults and adult population. Her ongoing areas of interest include integrating nutrition , physical movement and improved sleep practices as foundations and multi-level response for care. Overall Sifat tends to be more conservative in her prescribing practices, especially in regards to prescribing controlled substances.
My ideal client comes in and while they may not be able to verbalize directly, they are open to the process of working with me in a collaborative way to present what is going on in their lives currently. They will also have an idea of what their goals are or we can work together to define them. My ideal client recognizes that we are a team and that I am not there to merely give orders but to work as a team in implementing a plan moving forward. There are patients that come in because their prescriber has retired or relocated-of course that has its own management plan.
My ideal client comes in and while they may not be able to verbalize directly, they are open to the process of working with me in a collaborative way to present what is going on in their lives currently. They will also have an idea of what their goals are or we can work together to define them. My ideal client recognizes that we are a team and that I am not there to merely give orders but to work as a team in implementing a plan moving forward. There are patients that come in because their prescriber has retired or relocated-of course that has its own management plan.
![Photo of Tyler Wright, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e2716dd-525d-4713-b8e1-216ad29b9c71/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help adults overcome depression and anxiety through an integrated, holistic, patient-centered approach. I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating difficult life transitions, such as separation or divorce. I also specialize in helping adults manage bipolar and psychotic disorders, providing comprehensive care tailored to each person's unique needs.
I help adults overcome depression and anxiety through an integrated, holistic, patient-centered approach. I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating difficult life transitions, such as separation or divorce. I also specialize in helping adults manage bipolar and psychotic disorders, providing comprehensive care tailored to each person's unique needs.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety.
My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
Anxiety, depression, irritability, overwhelming stress, and obsessive worries can be debilitating and significantly limit your capacity to live life. These feelings lead to self doubt, relationship conflict, feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, uncertainty about direction in life, and potentially to substance use to lift depression or ease anxiety.
My treatment philosophy draws from diverse experience and theoretical approaches. Treatment is individualized, collaborative, and aimed at understanding underlying conflicts, clarifying life goals, and making substantive behavioral change to enable you to live life in a more introspective, mindful way that leads to greater fulfillment.
See more therapy options for Rye Brook
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Rye Brook, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Rye Brook, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
88% | Trauma and PTSD |
88% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Rye Brook, NY see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
58% | Female | |
42% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Rye Brook?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.