Psychiatrists in Spring Valley, NY

Photo of Andrew Bennett Klafter, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew Bennett Klafter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Valley, NY 10977
I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I treat patients who seek help for various types of problems. Depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, and feeling overwhelmed by life decisions are the most common problems that people report who have come to me for assistance. I treat adolescents and adults. I am privileged to work with patients of many different ethnicities, religions, nations of origin, and cultures. Another significant component of my practice is that I provide consultations and supervision for other psychotherapists. My particular expertise as a psychotherapy supervisor is in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
I practice psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and psychopharmacology. I treat patients who seek help for various types of problems. Depression, anxiety, difficulties in relationships, and feeling overwhelmed by life decisions are the most common problems that people report who have come to me for assistance. I treat adolescents and adults. I am privileged to work with patients of many different ethnicities, religions, nations of origin, and cultures. Another significant component of my practice is that I provide consultations and supervision for other psychotherapists. My particular expertise as a psychotherapy supervisor is in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
(513) 275-7188 View (513) 275-7188
Photo of Elizabeth Piccolo - Elizabeth Piccolo,Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Elizabeth Piccolo,Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My practice is ideal for those clients seeking a combination of a nursing and medical perspective. I am an advanced practice nurse with a board certification in Family Psychiatry. My license and certification allows me the privledge to prescribe medication while encorporating therapeutic modalities. I am able to treat and diagnose a diverse population with ages ranging from adolescent to geriatric. I have treated individuals with emotional and psychiatric needs including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, child ADHD and adult ADD, Substance Abuse, Post traumatic stress disorder, Anxiety disorders, Sleep disturbance and Alzheimers Dementia.
My practice is ideal for those clients seeking a combination of a nursing and medical perspective. I am an advanced practice nurse with a board certification in Family Psychiatry. My license and certification allows me the privledge to prescribe medication while encorporating therapeutic modalities. I am able to treat and diagnose a diverse population with ages ranging from adolescent to geriatric. I have treated individuals with emotional and psychiatric needs including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, child ADHD and adult ADD, Substance Abuse, Post traumatic stress disorder, Anxiety disorders, Sleep disturbance and Alzheimers Dementia.
(845) 694-7012 View (845) 694-7012
Photo of Parvesh K Shrama - Parvesh Sharma, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Parvesh Sharma, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Dr. Parvesh Sharma. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in the treatment of adults aged 18 and above, addressing a diverse range of psychiatric issues. My expertise includes managing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, ODD, and stress associated with personal challenges or any mental illness. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to support the mental well-being of my patients.
Welcome to the private psychiatric practice of Dr. Parvesh Sharma. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in the treatment of adults aged 18 and above, addressing a diverse range of psychiatric issues. My expertise includes managing conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, ODD, and stress associated with personal challenges or any mental illness. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to support the mental well-being of my patients.
(646) 760-6290 View (646) 760-6290
Photo of Dawn Weathersby, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawn Weathersby
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in comprehensive, compassionate mental health care for diverse groups, including seniors, bariatric patients, and individuals tackling codependency. Whether addressing treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or mood issues, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space where open dialogue meets tailored solutions. I blend medication management with therapeutic techniques like CBT, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, and supportive therapy to help you understand and manage your emotions.
With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in comprehensive, compassionate mental health care for diverse groups, including seniors, bariatric patients, and individuals tackling codependency. Whether addressing treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or mood issues, you’ll find a safe, non-judgmental space where open dialogue meets tailored solutions. I blend medication management with therapeutic techniques like CBT, DBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, and supportive therapy to help you understand and manage your emotions.
(929) 470-7208 View (929) 470-7208

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lucille Contreras Sollazzo, MSN, RN, ACCEP, ERM, Psychiatric Nurse
Lucille Contreras Sollazzo
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, RN, ACCEP, ERM
Verified Verified
Online Only
ERM is for couples who are interested in achieving the deep potential of intimate relationships. Having been trained in and practicing ERM & being a Core Energetics Practitoner (working with individuals in an evolutionary somatic process), has given me the art, science and intuition to work with people in an emotionally focused, embodied, experiential, empathy driven & evolutionary way, to support individuals & couples to evolve together as individuals & as a couple. I have dedicated my years of work to support queer couples & individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community.
ERM is for couples who are interested in achieving the deep potential of intimate relationships. Having been trained in and practicing ERM & being a Core Energetics Practitoner (working with individuals in an evolutionary somatic process), has given me the art, science and intuition to work with people in an emotionally focused, embodied, experiential, empathy driven & evolutionary way, to support individuals & couples to evolve together as individuals & as a couple. I have dedicated my years of work to support queer couples & individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community.
(914) 407-3689 View (914) 407-3689
Photo of Dr. Amandeep Bhandal - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(845) 622-6820 View (845) 622-6820
Photo of Khatija Bukhari, MD, Psychiatrist
Khatija Bukhari
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Nyack, NY 10994
Seeking a psychiatrist for oneself or a family member can be a daunting process. Recognizing this, I work to put the entire family at ease through my unique approach to treatment. I describe myself as family-centered, meaning that I cater not just to the patient, but to their entire family. Through a comprehensive intake process that takes into account cultural perspectives, I assess the individual from a developmental, biological, and psycho-social perspective. I view my patients as complex individuals who are so much more than a diagnosis. My preferred modality is pharmacotherapy, though I also provide psychotherapy.
Seeking a psychiatrist for oneself or a family member can be a daunting process. Recognizing this, I work to put the entire family at ease through my unique approach to treatment. I describe myself as family-centered, meaning that I cater not just to the patient, but to their entire family. Through a comprehensive intake process that takes into account cultural perspectives, I assess the individual from a developmental, biological, and psycho-social perspective. I view my patients as complex individuals who are so much more than a diagnosis. My preferred modality is pharmacotherapy, though I also provide psychotherapy.
(845) 731-6126 View (845) 731-6126
Photo of Katie Lindenbaum, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Lindenbaum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for adults with mental health concerns. I incorporate supportive psychotherapy in my sessions and take a holistic approach, placing emphasis on lifestyle modifications, sleep hygiene, and nutrition. I have worked in different roles in oncology for over 9 years and provide support to individuals who have been affected by cancer (oncology patients, survivors, caregivers, and individuals experiencing loss). I have a strong understanding of the unique needs that can arise through all phases of the cancer journey.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management for adults with mental health concerns. I incorporate supportive psychotherapy in my sessions and take a holistic approach, placing emphasis on lifestyle modifications, sleep hygiene, and nutrition. I have worked in different roles in oncology for over 9 years and provide support to individuals who have been affected by cancer (oncology patients, survivors, caregivers, and individuals experiencing loss). I have a strong understanding of the unique needs that can arise through all phases of the cancer journey.
(914) 218-6069 View (914) 218-6069
Amandeep Bhandal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
My name is Amandeep Bhandal. I am board certified adult Psychiatrist. I did my adult residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and my fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, PA. I am invested in providing care to children and their caregivers and to young adults. My area of interest is geared towards populations with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, anxiety conditions and trauma. I believe in working with my patients towards optimal health.
My name is Amandeep Bhandal. I am board certified adult Psychiatrist. I did my adult residency at Harlem Hospital, NY and my fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, PA. I am invested in providing care to children and their caregivers and to young adults. My area of interest is geared towards populations with Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, anxiety conditions and trauma. I believe in working with my patients towards optimal health.
(914) 350-5705 View (914) 350-5705
Photo of Sadhana Sardana, MD, Psychiatrist
Sadhana Sardana
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
I value the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and collaboration with parents/families, teachers and other providers to understand the patient and his/her strengths and needs in the context of the family, taking into consideration the impact of the developmental, biological, psycho-social, cultural, educational, vocational factors etc. My patients describe me as a caring, empathic and kind-hearted person. I want to help people suffering from mental health issues so that they live a happy, independent, fulfilling and productive life.
I value the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and collaboration with parents/families, teachers and other providers to understand the patient and his/her strengths and needs in the context of the family, taking into consideration the impact of the developmental, biological, psycho-social, cultural, educational, vocational factors etc. My patients describe me as a caring, empathic and kind-hearted person. I want to help people suffering from mental health issues so that they live a happy, independent, fulfilling and productive life.
(845) 203-3529 View (845) 203-3529
Photo of Dr. Mary Asiedu, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Mary Asiedu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and am a board-certified, New York University-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental health across the lifespan. I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health and quality of life. I will partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment by going beyond the symptoms that brought you into treatment. I have a niche for caregivers, adolescents, young adults, students, and those who are grieving. I am passionate about listening deeply to your experience.
I have a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and am a board-certified, New York University-trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental health across the lifespan. I focus on helping patients relieve stress and improve their mental health and quality of life. I will partner with you to help you achieve joy and fulfillment by going beyond the symptoms that brought you into treatment. I have a niche for caregivers, adolescents, young adults, students, and those who are grieving. I am passionate about listening deeply to your experience.
(845) 209-0392 View (845) 209-0392
Photo of Ingrid L Montgomery - Ingrid L. Montgomery, MD, MPH, PLLC, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
Ingrid L. Montgomery, MD, MPH, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965
I am a board certified psychiatrist treating adolescents and adults suffering from stress related issues that are causing dysfunction in your life. Some issues are as simple as learning healthy coping skills and having a support system that understands you. If you are suffering from a new onset or chronic illness such as bipolar, depression, substance use disorder, or anxiety, our practice will provide both medication and therapy to help in certain cases. You will receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We provide concierge service (travel) to you in the comfort of your home or office-(postponed).
I am a board certified psychiatrist treating adolescents and adults suffering from stress related issues that are causing dysfunction in your life. Some issues are as simple as learning healthy coping skills and having a support system that understands you. If you are suffering from a new onset or chronic illness such as bipolar, depression, substance use disorder, or anxiety, our practice will provide both medication and therapy to help in certain cases. You will receive an individualized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We provide concierge service (travel) to you in the comfort of your home or office-(postponed).
(347) 658-1169 View (347) 658-1169
Photo of Dr. Jena Simon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Jena Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Jena M. Simon, DNP, is a Double Board-Certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family health. After graduating from Columbia University in 2010 as a Family and Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Simon worked in New York City at a large tertiary medical center caring for adults with sickle cell disease. In this role, she became attuned to the needs of people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
Jena M. Simon, DNP, is a Double Board-Certified nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health and family health. After graduating from Columbia University in 2010 as a Family and Oncology Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Simon worked in New York City at a large tertiary medical center caring for adults with sickle cell disease. In this role, she became attuned to the needs of people living with chronic illness and chronic pain.
(347) 967-5203 View (347) 967-5203
Photo of Max Slotwinski, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Max Slotwinski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond just a prescription. Currently, I only offer services via telehealth, so one must be comfortable with utilizing that platform. A physical office space is in my near future, but even then, I intend to offer hybrid care for the convenience and comfort of my clients. My ideal client wishes to gain insight and clarity through the psychiatric evaluation process and also find balance and quality of life via ongoing treatment.
My ideal client is motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond just a prescription. Currently, I only offer services via telehealth, so one must be comfortable with utilizing that platform. A physical office space is in my near future, but even then, I intend to offer hybrid care for the convenience and comfort of my clients. My ideal client wishes to gain insight and clarity through the psychiatric evaluation process and also find balance and quality of life via ongoing treatment.
(845) 479-6713 View (845) 479-6713
Photo of Kirstie M Crespo-Solomon, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kirstie M Crespo-Solomon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked in the healthcare field for over fifteen years, with a strong background in emergency medicine, and behavioral health. The last 15 years have prepared me to continue to be a leader in the profession.
I have worked in the healthcare field for over fifteen years, with a strong background in emergency medicine, and behavioral health. The last 15 years have prepared me to continue to be a leader in the profession.
(929) 395-1830 View (929) 395-1830
Photo of Varsha Vaidya Kunnirickal, MD, Psychiatrist
Varsha Vaidya Kunnirickal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist (MD &NYLic) in this field since 1996. I was Faculty at Johns Hopkins Univ School of Medicine for 12 years. I have been in private practice as a psychiatrist since 2007. I currently also work as Faculty at NYU. I specialize in diagnosis and psychopharmacological management of mental illness. I see patients 16 years and above with symptoms of attention and focus issues, obesity, gender dysphoria, anxiety depression bipolar disorder, delirium dementia and psychiatric symptoms in the setting of medical illness. I also do consultations advising patients & their families about best options for them.
I am a Board certified Psychiatrist (MD &NYLic) in this field since 1996. I was Faculty at Johns Hopkins Univ School of Medicine for 12 years. I have been in private practice as a psychiatrist since 2007. I currently also work as Faculty at NYU. I specialize in diagnosis and psychopharmacological management of mental illness. I see patients 16 years and above with symptoms of attention and focus issues, obesity, gender dysphoria, anxiety depression bipolar disorder, delirium dementia and psychiatric symptoms in the setting of medical illness. I also do consultations advising patients & their families about best options for them.
(845) 581-7857 View (845) 581-7857
Photo of Hong Kim, PMHNP, NP-P, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hong Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of Micah B Engel, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Micah B Engel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11367
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified NP in Psychiatry trained at NYU and Touro University. I received several years of training and supervision at Four Winds Hospital and Mosaic Mental Health. I offer medication management and therapy for children and adults. My specialties include autism, pediatric ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety and OCD. I provide services in New York and New Jersey.
I am a board-certified NP in Psychiatry trained at NYU and Touro University. I received several years of training and supervision at Four Winds Hospital and Mosaic Mental Health. I offer medication management and therapy for children and adults. My specialties include autism, pediatric ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety and OCD. I provide services in New York and New Jersey.
(929) 362-4906 View (929) 362-4906
Photo of Dana Neal, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dana Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with seven years of combined inpatient psychiatric and medical experience. I earned my MSN from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing and specialize in psychotherapy and medication management.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with seven years of combined inpatient psychiatric and medical experience. I earned my MSN from Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing and specialize in psychotherapy and medication management.
(845) 666-3554 View (845) 666-3554
Photo of Helene Anne Miller - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, MD, Psychiatrist
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nanuet, NY 10954
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) is now in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), making high-quality psychiatric and therapeutic care more affordable and accessible for patients across New Jersey and New York. We provide telehealth services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere. Our expert providers offer support for children, adolescents, and adults, and we offer same-day crisis appointments to ensure you get help when you need it most.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) is now in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), making high-quality psychiatric and therapeutic care more affordable and accessible for patients across New Jersey and New York. We provide telehealth services that allow you to receive care from the comfort of your home, office, or anywhere. Our expert providers offer support for children, adolescents, and adults, and we offer same-day crisis appointments to ensure you get help when you need it most.
(201) 258-3240 View (201) 258-3240

See more therapy options for Spring Valley

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Spring Valley, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Spring Valley, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Bipolar Disorder
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in Spring Valley, NY see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Spring Valley?

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.