Psychiatrists in Syracuse, NY

Photo of Tania Marschall - Tania Marschall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tania Marschall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13203
My name is Tania Marschall and I'm a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm happy to offer you Telepsychiatry services for the state of New York. Telepsychiatry is all about providing you the convenience you need in your life so you can get back to whats important . With Telepsychiatry, this allows increased access to care by reducing wait times, costs, commute times, eliminate child or eldercare, or taking time off work. With internet access, you will be able to schedule an appointment through your smartphone,tablet, or computer using a secure HIPPA compliant platform.
My name is Tania Marschall and I'm a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm happy to offer you Telepsychiatry services for the state of New York. Telepsychiatry is all about providing you the convenience you need in your life so you can get back to whats important . With Telepsychiatry, this allows increased access to care by reducing wait times, costs, commute times, eliminate child or eldercare, or taking time off work. With internet access, you will be able to schedule an appointment through your smartphone,tablet, or computer using a secure HIPPA compliant platform.
(315) 753-4411 View (315) 753-4411
Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202  (Online Only)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
View
Photo of Elijah B Stevens - Psychiatric NP Healthcare of CNY, MSN, ANP, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric NP Healthcare of CNY
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP, NPP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206
Currently Accepting New Patients - We are a Self Pay Office: Welcome to Psychiatric NP Healthcare of Central NY. We are an independently owned and operated “Nurse Practitioner” Medication Management specialty office for Psychiatric Disorders, Medical Marijuana for Chronic Pain Adjunct and Suboxone for Opiod Addiction Treatment & Chronic Pain Adjunctive Treatment (without opiate withdrawal symptoms). We decided to become a Self-Pay office so that Insurance companies/Medicare & Medicaid would not be able to decide what care you received but rather you receive the care you deserve to help save your life. - www.elijahstevensnp.com
Currently Accepting New Patients - We are a Self Pay Office: Welcome to Psychiatric NP Healthcare of Central NY. We are an independently owned and operated “Nurse Practitioner” Medication Management specialty office for Psychiatric Disorders, Medical Marijuana for Chronic Pain Adjunct and Suboxone for Opiod Addiction Treatment & Chronic Pain Adjunctive Treatment (without opiate withdrawal symptoms). We decided to become a Self-Pay office so that Insurance companies/Medicare & Medicaid would not be able to decide what care you received but rather you receive the care you deserve to help save your life. - www.elijahstevensnp.com
(315) 565-6862 View (315) 565-6862
Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206  (Online Only)
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
(585) 449-9554 View (585) 449-9554
Photo of Casey Cuddy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Casey Cuddy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13204  (Online Only)
You will find that I am interested in, respectful of, and responsive to your issues, struggles, and inquiries, and I will challenge you to solve problems, to heal, and to grow. We will strive to identify causes of, and strategies for addressing symptoms and problems—not take medications. You will learn about your diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options to inform your healthcare choices. Trauma-related issues and safe, optimized prescribing are the primary focuses, although psychotherapy is also offered.
You will find that I am interested in, respectful of, and responsive to your issues, struggles, and inquiries, and I will challenge you to solve problems, to heal, and to grow. We will strive to identify causes of, and strategies for addressing symptoms and problems—not take medications. You will learn about your diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options to inform your healthcare choices. Trauma-related issues and safe, optimized prescribing are the primary focuses, although psychotherapy is also offered.
(646) 718-1649 View (646) 718-1649
Photo of Heather Henderson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heather Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13219
Waitlist for new clients
The journey of life is unique and different for all of us. However, one of the common threads for us all is that this journey will be full of twists and turns and ups and downs. Heather will strive to assist you in navigating these twists and turns and ups and downs so that you are able to achieve wellness and your full potential.
The journey of life is unique and different for all of us. However, one of the common threads for us all is that this journey will be full of twists and turns and ups and downs. Heather will strive to assist you in navigating these twists and turns and ups and downs so that you are able to achieve wellness and your full potential.
(315) 564-4896 View (315) 564-4896
Photo of Alisha M Waterstripe, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alisha M Waterstripe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Sometimes we just need a little extra help. I want to help you make your journey a little easier. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for all mental health conditions. My goal is to find the right medication and dosage for each patient's needs, while minimizing side effects and risks.
Sometimes we just need a little extra help. I want to help you make your journey a little easier. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing medication management for all mental health conditions. My goal is to find the right medication and dosage for each patient's needs, while minimizing side effects and risks.
(315) 595-5486 View (315) 595-5486
Photo of Khalid Sethi - NeuroSciences and Spine Group, MD, FACS, FAANS, Psychiatrist
NeuroSciences and Spine Group
Psychiatrist, MD, FACS, FAANS
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
After being in practice in Neurosurgery for 25 years; I am in awe at the amazing ability of the nervous system to heal itself with NeuroModulation. The NeuroSciences and Spine Group brings practitioners from related but different disciplines together : Psychiatry, Neurology and NeuroSurgery, in a coordinated team based approach to deliver the Care that you deserve . Partnering with SUNY -Upstate Psychiatry and NeuroStar we now offer TMS therapy for patients with Medically Refractory Depression and Anxiety.
After being in practice in Neurosurgery for 25 years; I am in awe at the amazing ability of the nervous system to heal itself with NeuroModulation. The NeuroSciences and Spine Group brings practitioners from related but different disciplines together : Psychiatry, Neurology and NeuroSurgery, in a coordinated team based approach to deliver the Care that you deserve . Partnering with SUNY -Upstate Psychiatry and NeuroStar we now offer TMS therapy for patients with Medically Refractory Depression and Anxiety.
(315) 679-4469 View (315) 679-4469
Photo of Alexis Dmytryk, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Dmytryk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13203
It is my pleasure to Welcome everyone to my practice ! I specialize in prescribing psychiatric medications to children, adolescents and adults . I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, eating disorder, addiction, and insomnia.I am board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority and have experience in both outpatient and acute settings. I see patients for psychotherapy and medication assessment. I am practicing from my office in Syracuse as well as online via telemedicine. Remember that you are not alone. I'm here to listen and support you at all times.
It is my pleasure to Welcome everyone to my practice ! I specialize in prescribing psychiatric medications to children, adolescents and adults . I treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, schizophrenia, ADHD, OCD, eating disorder, addiction, and insomnia.I am board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner with prescriptive authority and have experience in both outpatient and acute settings. I see patients for psychotherapy and medication assessment. I am practicing from my office in Syracuse as well as online via telemedicine. Remember that you are not alone. I'm here to listen and support you at all times.
(315) 707-4008 View (315) 707-4008
Photo of Andrew Curtin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrew Curtin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13202
Not accepting new clients
As a former combat veteran I focus a great deal of my practice on trauma informed care and treating PTSD. My journey in the military led me to my career in nursing and later psychiatry. I have many patients that are current or former military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT's and medical staff of various disciplines. I also am very experienced with treating: anxiety, panic disorders, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
As a former combat veteran I focus a great deal of my practice on trauma informed care and treating PTSD. My journey in the military led me to my career in nursing and later psychiatry. I have many patients that are current or former military, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT's and medical staff of various disciplines. I also am very experienced with treating: anxiety, panic disorders, depression, insomnia, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
(315) 291-8214 View (315) 291-8214
Photo of Francesca Jean, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Francesca Jean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13224  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new patients for therapy and medication management appointments. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with clinical experience in various settings and a broad range of mental health and psychiatric experiences. I use an eclectic and integrated style that blends elements of psychoanalysis, trauma informed care, and mindfulness. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological challenges related to traumatic events, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I use a collaborative approach that caters to each patient’s needs while combining interpersonal approaches.
I am currently accepting new patients for therapy and medication management appointments. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with clinical experience in various settings and a broad range of mental health and psychiatric experiences. I use an eclectic and integrated style that blends elements of psychoanalysis, trauma informed care, and mindfulness. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological challenges related to traumatic events, life transitions and relationship difficulties. I use a collaborative approach that caters to each patient’s needs while combining interpersonal approaches.
(315) 512-2596 View (315) 512-2596
Photo of Yichao Zhang, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yichao Zhang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13202
Don't let your mental illness become your identity and define who you are. I'm Yichao Zhang, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm currently accepting new clients who are looking for medication management and individual counseling for the betterment of their mental health.
Don't let your mental illness become your identity and define who you are. I'm Yichao Zhang, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm currently accepting new clients who are looking for medication management and individual counseling for the betterment of their mental health.
(315) 291-8816 View (315) 291-8816
Photo of Lucinda Coffin, PA, Physician Assistant
Lucinda Coffin
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13210
Lucinda Coffin is a Psychiatric PA passionate about holistic health and well-being. She combines conventional medication management with integrative health approaches to offer comprehensive care for adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other conditions. Believing in the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, Lucinda considers all aspects of health. She integrates dietary considerations, exercise routines, and cognitive processes, into her treatment plans, ensuring patients receive personalized care tailored to unique needs and lifestyles. She sees patients in person and when appropriate, online.
Lucinda Coffin is a Psychiatric PA passionate about holistic health and well-being. She combines conventional medication management with integrative health approaches to offer comprehensive care for adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other conditions. Believing in the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, Lucinda considers all aspects of health. She integrates dietary considerations, exercise routines, and cognitive processes, into her treatment plans, ensuring patients receive personalized care tailored to unique needs and lifestyles. She sees patients in person and when appropriate, online.
View
Photo of Erik Frost - Brightside Health, Psychiatrist
Brightside Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206  (Online Only)
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
(315) 860-0312 View (315) 860-0312
Photo of Xingjia Cui - New York Holistic Psychiatry, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist
New York Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13244  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatrist with 30 years of clinical experience in treating different mental diseases including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, etc. in different settings and cultures. I attended Southeastern University Medical School in Nanjing, China and did my residency at Strong Memorial Hospital of University of Rochester and my fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital of Harvard Medical School. With my extensive training and experience, I can help you successfully deal with any mental health challenges you are facing.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with 30 years of clinical experience in treating different mental diseases including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, etc. in different settings and cultures. I attended Southeastern University Medical School in Nanjing, China and did my residency at Strong Memorial Hospital of University of Rochester and my fellowship at Brigham and Women's Hospital of Harvard Medical School. With my extensive training and experience, I can help you successfully deal with any mental health challenges you are facing.
(646) 969-7763 View (646) 969-7763
Photo of Carrie Kramer, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carrie Kramer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13207  (Online Only)
My goal is to be a partner in your mental health journey. I want to learn about you, what is important to you, and work with you to help you become the best version of yourself. I am an advocate for the clients I treat and work with each individual to utilize their strengths as part of the healing process. I am not in charge of your treatment plan; each client is, and I am just here to provide the knowledge I have to help each client meet their individual goals. Mental health treatment is a long journey, but you will never regret taking that first step to improve your life.
My goal is to be a partner in your mental health journey. I want to learn about you, what is important to you, and work with you to help you become the best version of yourself. I am an advocate for the clients I treat and work with each individual to utilize their strengths as part of the healing process. I am not in charge of your treatment plan; each client is, and I am just here to provide the knowledge I have to help each client meet their individual goals. Mental health treatment is a long journey, but you will never regret taking that first step to improve your life.
(315) 221-9118 View (315) 221-9118
Photo of Dr. Archana Kathpal, MD, DFAPA, Psychiatrist
Dr. Archana Kathpal
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13210
If you’re facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or stress, and need expert medication management, you’re in the right place. As one of the few psychiatrists in the area with triple board certification in Adult, Child/Adolescent, and Forensic Psychiatry, I specialize primarily in working with children and adolescents, bringing extensive expertise to address their unique needs. Additionally, I provide comprehensive care for adults. In my practice, I take inspiration from the Sanskrit word “Vihaan,” meaning sunrise, aiming to help each patient experience a new dawn in their mental health journey.
If you’re facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or stress, and need expert medication management, you’re in the right place. As one of the few psychiatrists in the area with triple board certification in Adult, Child/Adolescent, and Forensic Psychiatry, I specialize primarily in working with children and adolescents, bringing extensive expertise to address their unique needs. Additionally, I provide comprehensive care for adults. In my practice, I take inspiration from the Sanskrit word “Vihaan,” meaning sunrise, aiming to help each patient experience a new dawn in their mental health journey.
(315) 908-0912 View (315) 908-0912
Photo of Chidimma Nzoiwu At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chidimma Nzoiwu At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13210  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Book an appointment at our website corepsychiatry.org!
Book an appointment at our website corepsychiatry.org!
(347) 676-2530 View (347) 676-2530
Photo of Adewunmi Bankole At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adewunmi Bankole At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13204  (Online Only)
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, PMHNP-BC is a doctoral prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry treating adults, children, adolescent and geriatric population. Dr. Bankole believes that care should be patient focus and holistic with best evidence-based practice.
Book an appointment on our website at corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Adewunmi Bankole, PMHNP-BC is a doctoral prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with vast experience in psychiatry treating adults, children, adolescent and geriatric population. Dr. Bankole believes that care should be patient focus and holistic with best evidence-based practice.
(914) 521-3896 View (914) 521-3896
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13201  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, licensed in New York. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family and marital therapy. I have always felt that the brain is the most important and neglected organ in the body, and taking care of the brain is the key to well being. I take a holistic approach to care, evaluating for physical, nutrition, hormones, situational and psychodynamic causes of illness, whilst practicing evidence based psychiatry. I have a background in integrative psychiatry and HIV psychiatry. I believe that everyone has value, and everyone deserves the best care.
(716) 714-0538 View (716) 714-0538
1

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Syracuse, NY

60+

Average cost per session

$222

Psychiatrists in Syracuse, NY who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
92% Anxiety
80% Trauma and PTSD
78% Medication Management
75% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth
82% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Syracuse, NY see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

68% Female
32% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Syracuse?

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.