Psychiatrists in Scarsdale, NY

Photo of Dr. Suparna Basu, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Suparna Basu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
If you are suffering from anxiety or depression you should know you are not alone. Problems with your emotional health can prevent you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest. Working with you to reach your full potential is my number one goal. My approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which my working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about my practice on my website; http://basupsychiatry.com
(914) 529-6364 View (914) 529-6364
Photo of Yonghong Tan, MD, Psychiatrist
Yonghong Tan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Life can be hard. We all have our breaking points. You have done your best to overcome it. It really takes courage to start looking for help. Hello and welcome to ZenMind Clinic. I am a psychiatrist with training from The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and New York University, and hold double board certifications in both general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. Over the last five years, I had the privilege of overseeing the psycho-oncology clinic at Norwalk Hospital, as well as serving as a core teaching faculty member within the Nuvance psychiatry residency program.
Life can be hard. We all have our breaking points. You have done your best to overcome it. It really takes courage to start looking for help. Hello and welcome to ZenMind Clinic. I am a psychiatrist with training from The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and New York University, and hold double board certifications in both general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. Over the last five years, I had the privilege of overseeing the psycho-oncology clinic at Norwalk Hospital, as well as serving as a core teaching faculty member within the Nuvance psychiatry residency program.
(203) 660-0687 View (203) 660-0687
Photo of Matias Verna, MD, Psychiatrist
Matias Verna
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide psychiatric evaluation services, psychotherapy and medication management for children of all ages, adolescents, and adults. As a bilingual psychiatrist I can provide services in Spanish and English.
I provide psychiatric evaluation services, psychotherapy and medication management for children of all ages, adolescents, and adults. As a bilingual psychiatrist I can provide services in Spanish and English.
(718) 569-7020 View (718) 569-7020
Photo of Anu Vazhappilly - Vazhappilly Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vazhappilly Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to Vazhappilly Wellness. My name is Anu Vazhappilly and I am a board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of dedicated service to those navigating life's intricate challenges. My commitment to patient-centered care blends holistic principles with a profound understanding of psychodynamic and humanistic approaches. Specializing in guiding individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and ADHD with the innovative application of EMDR Therapy. Vazhappilly Wellness is deeply rooted in cultural sensitivity, ensuring that every individual's unique background is honored and respected.
Welcome to Vazhappilly Wellness. My name is Anu Vazhappilly and I am a board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of dedicated service to those navigating life's intricate challenges. My commitment to patient-centered care blends holistic principles with a profound understanding of psychodynamic and humanistic approaches. Specializing in guiding individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and ADHD with the innovative application of EMDR Therapy. Vazhappilly Wellness is deeply rooted in cultural sensitivity, ensuring that every individual's unique background is honored and respected.
(914) 877-2431 View (914) 877-2431
Robin Schafer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
I understand mental health disorders as being a very disruptive time in one's life. My over 15 years as a medical practitioner incorporates my knowledge as a mental health professional in treating the entire patient. I specialize in collaborating with your therapist and providing medication and medication management for unresolved disorders. I do not generally medicate on the first visit, rather I take the time to properly diagnose and titrate medication appropriately when warranted.
I understand mental health disorders as being a very disruptive time in one's life. My over 15 years as a medical practitioner incorporates my knowledge as a mental health professional in treating the entire patient. I specialize in collaborating with your therapist and providing medication and medication management for unresolved disorders. I do not generally medicate on the first visit, rather I take the time to properly diagnose and titrate medication appropriately when warranted.
(646) 392-7239 View (646) 392-7239
Photo of Faiq A Hameedi, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Faiq A Hameedi
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
The Anxiety & Depression Center of Scarsdale is a unique, private psychiatry practice located in lower Westchester County and the Bronx. Dr. Hameedi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the discreet treatment of individuals experiencing mental illness and psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Hameedi understands that each individual is unique and requires a custom-tailored approach to address that person’s needs. Our goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment so that our patients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers which limit their potential.
The Anxiety & Depression Center of Scarsdale is a unique, private psychiatry practice located in lower Westchester County and the Bronx. Dr. Hameedi is a Board Certified Psychiatrist who specializes in the discreet treatment of individuals experiencing mental illness and psychiatric symptoms. Dr. Hameedi understands that each individual is unique and requires a custom-tailored approach to address that person’s needs. Our goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment so that our patients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers which limit their potential.
(914) 491-5722 View (914) 491-5722
Photo of Tara Brass, MD, Psychiatrist
Tara Brass
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
I graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania and earned my MD from Jefferson Medical College. I completed my Psychiatry residency at Mount Sinai (NYC) where I received extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. My specialties are in the areas of mood, anxiety and eating disorders. I am also trained and certified as a health coach by The Institute for Integrative Nutrition. I have maintained a private practice in Scarsdale since 2005 and I am now thrilled to be able to offer my services to patients in Florida via my telemedicine practice.
I graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania and earned my MD from Jefferson Medical College. I completed my Psychiatry residency at Mount Sinai (NYC) where I received extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. My specialties are in the areas of mood, anxiety and eating disorders. I am also trained and certified as a health coach by The Institute for Integrative Nutrition. I have maintained a private practice in Scarsdale since 2005 and I am now thrilled to be able to offer my services to patients in Florida via my telemedicine practice.
(914) 499-0168 View (914) 499-0168
Photo of Rachel Ward, MD, Psychiatrist
Rachel Ward
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
**Email inquiries for quick response!** I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a commitment to maintaining a warm, open and non-judgmental space for all individuals I work with. I have experience diagnosing & treating a wide range of mental health issues, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, perinatal and postpartum depression/anxiety/psychosis, and adult ADD/ADHD.
**Email inquiries for quick response!** I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a commitment to maintaining a warm, open and non-judgmental space for all individuals I work with. I have experience diagnosing & treating a wide range of mental health issues, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, thought disorders, perinatal and postpartum depression/anxiety/psychosis, and adult ADD/ADHD.
(347) 801-7640 View (347) 801-7640
Photo of Jessica Eisenberg, MD, Psychiatrist
Jessica Eisenberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a double board certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in New York. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to feel better understood as individuals, reach their personal goals, and forge more meaningful relationships. To accomplish this, I approach my patients with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize integrated and holistic methods of treatment. I’m trained in various modalities of evidenced based psychotherapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic psychotherapy. When the need arises, I also prescribe medication to enhance treatment.
I am a double board certified adult and child/adolescent psychiatrist in New York. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to feel better understood as individuals, reach their personal goals, and forge more meaningful relationships. To accomplish this, I approach my patients with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize integrated and holistic methods of treatment. I’m trained in various modalities of evidenced based psychotherapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic psychotherapy. When the need arises, I also prescribe medication to enhance treatment.
(914) 233-3414 View (914) 233-3414
Photo of Jeffrey P Kahn, MD, Psychiatrist
Jeffrey P Kahn
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Jeffrey P. Kahn, MD is a Columbia trained psychiatrist and Full Cornell Professor in Westchester (Scarsdale) and on the Upper West Side. He offers thoughtful psychotherapy, careful medication, and thorough evaluation. This empathic approach helps with relationship, work and career issues - and with anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Thorough evaluation includes attentive listening, detailed history, emotional understanding, clear diagnoses, and best options. Mostly an office psychiatrist, he has studied, written, spoken, and taught on many topics. More then ten years a Top Doctor (New York Magazine, Castle-Connolly Medical).
Jeffrey P. Kahn, MD is a Columbia trained psychiatrist and Full Cornell Professor in Westchester (Scarsdale) and on the Upper West Side. He offers thoughtful psychotherapy, careful medication, and thorough evaluation. This empathic approach helps with relationship, work and career issues - and with anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Thorough evaluation includes attentive listening, detailed history, emotional understanding, clear diagnoses, and best options. Mostly an office psychiatrist, he has studied, written, spoken, and taught on many topics. More then ten years a Top Doctor (New York Magazine, Castle-Connolly Medical).
(914) 610-7316 View (914) 610-7316
Photo of Jeffery Smith - Westchester Consultation and Psychotherapy, MD, Psychiatrist
Westchester Consultation and Psychotherapy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Jeffery Smith, MD is an author and leader who specializes in helping individuals and families in their most challenging and difficult times. He offers thoughtful and through evaluation, diagnosis and discussion of options in person and online. He is full clinical professor at New York Medical College, as well as Leader of the Psychotherapy Caucus of the American Psychiatric Association and President Elect of the Society for the Exploration of Psychotherapy Integration. His years of practice and teaching other therapists allow him to give patients confidence in navigating the maze of mental health treatments and choices.
Jeffery Smith, MD is an author and leader who specializes in helping individuals and families in their most challenging and difficult times. He offers thoughtful and through evaluation, diagnosis and discussion of options in person and online. He is full clinical professor at New York Medical College, as well as Leader of the Psychotherapy Caucus of the American Psychiatric Association and President Elect of the Society for the Exploration of Psychotherapy Integration. His years of practice and teaching other therapists allow him to give patients confidence in navigating the maze of mental health treatments and choices.
(914) 401-4472 View (914) 401-4472
Photo of Michael Hidalgo, MD, Psychiatrist
Michael Hidalgo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Our services are made with the busy family, student and professional in mind. Dr. Hidalgo offers convenient evening and weekend virtual appointments to fit your busy schedule. Our goal is to find the core of your symptoms and create a comprehensive and holistic treatment plan. We will explore your professional/academic life, family responsibilities, personal relationships, and physical health to identify areas where you can find relief. We will work together to find the best combination of medications, therapy, coaching, and lifestyle changes to achieve your goals.
Our services are made with the busy family, student and professional in mind. Dr. Hidalgo offers convenient evening and weekend virtual appointments to fit your busy schedule. Our goal is to find the core of your symptoms and create a comprehensive and holistic treatment plan. We will explore your professional/academic life, family responsibilities, personal relationships, and physical health to identify areas where you can find relief. We will work together to find the best combination of medications, therapy, coaching, and lifestyle changes to achieve your goals.
(914) 521-3327 View (914) 521-3327
Photo of Feng Liu, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Feng Liu
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Is your child smart but gets poor grades in school? Is your child too shy or too worried about blending in with peers? Does your child lose interest in things and refuse to go to school? Does your child seem angry, sad, tired, argumentative or unable to focus? I can help, with my 8 years of experience as an attending psychiatrist in the child inpatient unit at NYU-Bellevue Hospital and 12 years of experience as an outpatient psychiatrist in mid/downtown Manhattan, and with my knowledge and skills as a Clinical Assistant Professor in Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine.
Is your child smart but gets poor grades in school? Is your child too shy or too worried about blending in with peers? Does your child lose interest in things and refuse to go to school? Does your child seem angry, sad, tired, argumentative or unable to focus? I can help, with my 8 years of experience as an attending psychiatrist in the child inpatient unit at NYU-Bellevue Hospital and 12 years of experience as an outpatient psychiatrist in mid/downtown Manhattan, and with my knowledge and skills as a Clinical Assistant Professor in Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine.
(646) 798-9217 View (646) 798-9217
Photo of May Tsui, MD, Psychiatrist
May Tsui
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Feeling anxious, depressed or angry? Do you have self-esteem issues? Are you troubled by past experiences? Do you struggle with school, work or relationships? Psychotherapy can help you make changes to your life.
Feeling anxious, depressed or angry? Do you have self-esteem issues? Are you troubled by past experiences? Do you struggle with school, work or relationships? Psychotherapy can help you make changes to your life.
(646) 600-8110 View (646) 600-8110
Photo of Limore Maron, MD, Psychiatrist
Limore Maron
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Welcome to My Better Place LLC ! I, Dr. Limore Maron, am looking forward to starting our journey together. I provide patient centered care through Psychopharmacology ( medication management ), Natural supplements, and Supportive Therapy. Each patient deserves a tailored approach and we will work together to get you to a better place. I have been in clinical practice for over 14 years and treat ages 16-64 with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD , PTSD , OCD, I have held various academic appointments throughout my career at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine & University of Vermont School of Medicine.
Welcome to My Better Place LLC ! I, Dr. Limore Maron, am looking forward to starting our journey together. I provide patient centered care through Psychopharmacology ( medication management ), Natural supplements, and Supportive Therapy. Each patient deserves a tailored approach and we will work together to get you to a better place. I have been in clinical practice for over 14 years and treat ages 16-64 with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD , PTSD , OCD, I have held various academic appointments throughout my career at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine & University of Vermont School of Medicine.
(203) 212-8855 View (203) 212-8855
Photo of Adam N Raff - Adam N Raff, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Adam N Raff, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
I treat adults and adolescents with a wide array of emotional and psychological concerns, such as depression, anxiety, concentration problems, emotional dysregulation, and bipolar disorder. I also help individuals struggling with relationship or work issues, low self-esteem, anger/irritability, sleep troubles, and questions of meaning and purpose. A thorough and comprehensive psychiatric consultation demands that my patient and I do our best to understand all the potential reasons for their presentation for help. I focus on an alliance that supports an interaction of mutual involvement rather than a traditional paternalistic or authoritarian hierarchy in the doctor-patient relationship.
I treat adults and adolescents with a wide array of emotional and psychological concerns, such as depression, anxiety, concentration problems, emotional dysregulation, and bipolar disorder. I also help individuals struggling with relationship or work issues, low self-esteem, anger/irritability, sleep troubles, and questions of meaning and purpose. A thorough and comprehensive psychiatric consultation demands that my patient and I do our best to understand all the potential reasons for their presentation for help. I focus on an alliance that supports an interaction of mutual involvement rather than a traditional paternalistic or authoritarian hierarchy in the doctor-patient relationship.
(917) 791-6643 View (917) 791-6643
Photo of Sarah Oreck - Mavida Health, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Mavida Health
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management.
(914) 814-6428 View (914) 814-6428
Photo of William Nguyen, MD, Psychiatrist
William Nguyen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. My virtual private practice is a friendly, comfortable and safe space where one can come get help for a wide range of psychological struggles and emotional issues. I have a genuine desire to understand each individual and listen with an empathic, nonjudgmental and warm approach. I provide personalized, evidence-based treatments, incorporating psychotherapy and the judicious use of medications to alleviate symptoms to restore you back to emotional wellness.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. My virtual private practice is a friendly, comfortable and safe space where one can come get help for a wide range of psychological struggles and emotional issues. I have a genuine desire to understand each individual and listen with an empathic, nonjudgmental and warm approach. I provide personalized, evidence-based treatments, incorporating psychotherapy and the judicious use of medications to alleviate symptoms to restore you back to emotional wellness.
(646) 647-3297 View (646) 647-3297
Photo of Daniel L. Kimmel, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Daniel L. Kimmel
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
I am a board-certified Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and neuroscientist at Columbia University with expertise in treating a range of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, adult ADHD, substance use, and psychosis. I work collaboratively with patients to develop a treatment approach that incorporates psychotherapy and/or medications. My specializations include psychodynamic psychotherapy balanced with pragmatic and behavioral approaches. In addition, I specialize in managing multiple medications, providing a careful assessment of each medication and coordinating their interactions.
I am a board-certified Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and neuroscientist at Columbia University with expertise in treating a range of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, adult ADHD, substance use, and psychosis. I work collaboratively with patients to develop a treatment approach that incorporates psychotherapy and/or medications. My specializations include psychodynamic psychotherapy balanced with pragmatic and behavioral approaches. In addition, I specialize in managing multiple medications, providing a careful assessment of each medication and coordinating their interactions.
(646) 846-7717 View (646) 846-7717
Photo of Susan Weinstein, MD, Psychiatrist
Susan Weinstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Not accepting new clients
Susan Weinstein, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Ardsley, NY. She treats children, adolescents, and adults using psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Weinstein is also an attending physician and supervisor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, with dual appointments in the departments of psychiatry and pediatrics. She completed undergraduate training at the University of Pennsylvania, and completed medical school, adult and child psychiatry training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center.
Susan Weinstein, M.D. is a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Ardsley, NY. She treats children, adolescents, and adults using psychotherapy and medication management. Dr. Weinstein is also an attending physician and supervisor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, with dual appointments in the departments of psychiatry and pediatrics. She completed undergraduate training at the University of Pennsylvania, and completed medical school, adult and child psychiatry training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center.
(914) 768-3016 View (914) 768-3016
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Scarsdale, NY

50+

Average cost per session

$310

Psychiatrists in Scarsdale, NY who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
94% Anxiety
83% Medication Management
79% ADHD
79% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
79% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Scarsdale, NY see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

54% Female
46% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Scarsdale?

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.