Psychiatrists in Warren County, NY

View cities in Warren County
Photo of Alexis Mondella, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alexis Mondella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Alexis Mondella, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry. She offers integrative, evidence-based care for mental health, substance use, and metabolic wellness, combining psychopharmacology with a holistic, patient-centered approach that supports healing and long-term growth.
Alexis Mondella, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, is a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry. She offers integrative, evidence-based care for mental health, substance use, and metabolic wellness, combining psychopharmacology with a holistic, patient-centered approach that supports healing and long-term growth.
(518) 851-8295 View (518) 851-8295
Photo of Daniel Breeyear, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, MHNP-BC, BHCC, FMHC
Daniel Breeyear
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, MHNP-BC, BHCC, FMHC
1 Endorsed
Glens Falls, NY 12801
My ideal client is someone who wishes to take a more comprehensive approach to their overall care. This individual could be experiencing a first time mental health concern but isn’t interested in a medicine only approach. This individual can also be someone who has experienced the traditional approach to care where medications are always the answer and wants something different for themselves. Medications are an important tool in psychiatry but we believe in taking a comprehensive approach to care. Allowing the body to do what nature designed by properly caring for the whole person can lead to improved outcomes for our patients.
My ideal client is someone who wishes to take a more comprehensive approach to their overall care. This individual could be experiencing a first time mental health concern but isn’t interested in a medicine only approach. This individual can also be someone who has experienced the traditional approach to care where medications are always the answer and wants something different for themselves. Medications are an important tool in psychiatry but we believe in taking a comprehensive approach to care. Allowing the body to do what nature designed by properly caring for the whole person can lead to improved outcomes for our patients.
(518) 900-1334 View (518) 900-1334
Photo of Shannon James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC4
Shannon James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC4
1 Endorsed
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Here at Kindred I pride myself on treating clients like family. Truly Individualized care, as no two clients are alike. Both conventional and complementary approaches are explored. It is my top priority to have my clients feel empowered and heard at each meeting. Building rapport with them and their families as we work to reach the root cause of concern.
Here at Kindred I pride myself on treating clients like family. Truly Individualized care, as no two clients are alike. Both conventional and complementary approaches are explored. It is my top priority to have my clients feel empowered and heard at each meeting. Building rapport with them and their families as we work to reach the root cause of concern.
(518) 261-9682 View (518) 261-9682
Photo of Victoria M VanScoy-McAllister, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP, BC
Victoria M VanScoy-McAllister
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPP, BC
1 Endorsed
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Victoria VanScoy McAllister, NPP is a Nurse Practitioner specialist in Glens Falls New York. She graduated from Sage College in 2012. Prior to graduating as a Nurse Practitioner, she had over 20 years of diverse experience in psychiatric nursing. Victoria prides herself on providing high-quality individual care. She provides a full comprehensive 60 minute intake and 20-30 minute follow up appointments for medication management and psychotherapy. In addition, she provides a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that allows her patients to feel comfortable. She takes pride in providing a collaborative holistic approach to her treatment.
Victoria VanScoy McAllister, NPP is a Nurse Practitioner specialist in Glens Falls New York. She graduated from Sage College in 2012. Prior to graduating as a Nurse Practitioner, she had over 20 years of diverse experience in psychiatric nursing. Victoria prides herself on providing high-quality individual care. She provides a full comprehensive 60 minute intake and 20-30 minute follow up appointments for medication management and psychotherapy. In addition, she provides a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that allows her patients to feel comfortable. She takes pride in providing a collaborative holistic approach to her treatment.
(518) 216-0463 View (518) 216-0463
Photo of Sonya Blackmer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sonya Blackmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Sonya Blackmer, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, offers integrative psychiatric care for children and adults, blending physical and mental health. With 10+ years in primary care, she specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders using a holistic, compassionate, and evidence-based approach.
Sonya Blackmer, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, offers integrative psychiatric care for children and adults, blending physical and mental health. With 10+ years in primary care, she specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders using a holistic, compassionate, and evidence-based approach.
(518) 310-5031 View (518) 310-5031
Amelia Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Amelia Johnson, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing compassionate, affirming mental health care. She blends medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on trauma, mood disorders, and mind-body wellness. Her patient-centered approach empowers clients on their path to healing.
Amelia Johnson, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner providing compassionate, affirming mental health care. She blends medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on trauma, mood disorders, and mind-body wellness. Her patient-centered approach empowers clients on their path to healing.
(518) 722-3550 View (518) 722-3550
Photo of Geoffrey Robinson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Geoffrey Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Challenging life experiences happen to everyone, but we often have little information and guidance on how to navigate things like burnout, trauma, relationship turmoil... Whether this is your first time seeking treatment or if you are returning or continuing treatment, we can work together to help achieve your goals, better manage stressors, and improve the quality of your every day life. Your mental well-being should not be considered taboo, it should be a priority.
Challenging life experiences happen to everyone, but we often have little information and guidance on how to navigate things like burnout, trauma, relationship turmoil... Whether this is your first time seeking treatment or if you are returning or continuing treatment, we can work together to help achieve your goals, better manage stressors, and improve the quality of your every day life. Your mental well-being should not be considered taboo, it should be a priority.
(518) 864-1582 View (518) 864-1582
Photo of Eloise Marie Palmisano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, BC
Eloise Marie Palmisano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am Eloise Palmisano a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been a Registered Nurse for 30 years with many years of practice Mental Health and various types of practice. In 2009 I became a Nurse Practitioner, graduated from Sage College in Troy New York. My practice is private I specialize in Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders including Binge Eating and Major Depressive Disorders. My patients should be engaged in therapy with a therapist and must be compliant with my treatment plan. I treat adults from the age of 18 to 80. I am available for new patients .
I am Eloise Palmisano a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been a Registered Nurse for 30 years with many years of practice Mental Health and various types of practice. In 2009 I became a Nurse Practitioner, graduated from Sage College in Troy New York. My practice is private I specialize in Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders including Binge Eating and Major Depressive Disorders. My patients should be engaged in therapy with a therapist and must be compliant with my treatment plan. I treat adults from the age of 18 to 80. I am available for new patients .
(518) 621-4792 View (518) 621-4792
Patricia Ann Ford
Psychiatric Nurse, NPP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I received my Bachelors and Masters of Arts in Psychology and Health Communications from the State University of New York at Albany. I received my Masters of Science Degree in Nursing from the Sage Colleges. I am a board certified Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner and I also hold a current certification in College Health Nursing.
I received my Bachelors and Masters of Arts in Psychology and Health Communications from the State University of New York at Albany. I received my Masters of Science Degree in Nursing from the Sage Colleges. I am a board certified Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse practitioner and I also hold a current certification in College Health Nursing.
(518) 631-5531 View (518) 631-5531
Photo of Peter Joseph Valastro Jr, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Peter Joseph Valastro Jr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, MSN
Serves Area
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, or mood disorders that are impacting your daily life? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for help? You're not alone. Many people are facing similar challenges and navigating complex emotions. At Nurturing Minds Wellness, we offer a personalized approach for mental health treatment, including medications tailored to your unique needs. We start by gaining a deep understanding of your challenges and collaborating with you in developing a plan while helping you move forward. As you progress, we celebrate every achievement, big or small.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, insomnia, or mood disorders that are impacting your daily life? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure where to turn for help? You're not alone. Many people are facing similar challenges and navigating complex emotions. At Nurturing Minds Wellness, we offer a personalized approach for mental health treatment, including medications tailored to your unique needs. We start by gaining a deep understanding of your challenges and collaborating with you in developing a plan while helping you move forward. As you progress, we celebrate every achievement, big or small.
(518) 245-3837 View (518) 245-3837
Photo of Griffan Randall - Dr. Griffan Randall, D.O., PLLC, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Griffan Randall, D.O., PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Randall specializes in Psychiatry for Adolescents through Geriatrics. She offers Medication Management therapy, Various Individual Psychotherapies, Genetic testing, Court ordered evaluations, Medical Marijuana Certification, Maternal/Fetal Psychiatric Care, and Pre-Surgical Psychiatric Evaluations.
Dr. Randall specializes in Psychiatry for Adolescents through Geriatrics. She offers Medication Management therapy, Various Individual Psychotherapies, Genetic testing, Court ordered evaluations, Medical Marijuana Certification, Maternal/Fetal Psychiatric Care, and Pre-Surgical Psychiatric Evaluations.
(518) 255-7541 View (518) 255-7541
Photo of Laurie B Teal, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, NBCCH
Laurie B Teal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP, NBCCH
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Now accepting new clients! Honoring your path to wholeness. I have 30 plus years of Psychiatric experience, hold numerous additional credentials and certifications, have been on a spiritually active path for as longs as I can remember. What brought me all this way might surprise you. Transforming my own pain into wisdom that education and credentials cannot begin to teach. So, what I truly offer is a heart centered space to reflect back to you who are, beyond your trauma, beyond your self judgements and limiting beliefs. My invitation is that you become aware of your own power to create a life worth living.
Now accepting new clients! Honoring your path to wholeness. I have 30 plus years of Psychiatric experience, hold numerous additional credentials and certifications, have been on a spiritually active path for as longs as I can remember. What brought me all this way might surprise you. Transforming my own pain into wisdom that education and credentials cannot begin to teach. So, what I truly offer is a heart centered space to reflect back to you who are, beyond your trauma, beyond your self judgements and limiting beliefs. My invitation is that you become aware of your own power to create a life worth living.
(518) 636-1387 View (518) 636-1387
Photo of Rebecca Gillingham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Rebecca Gillingham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Compassionate and dedicated board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing high-quality, empathetic, comprehensive, realistic and evidence-based care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Proficient in psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. Skilled at working with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, prescribe psychiatric medications, and provide psychotherapeutic support to individuals across the lifespan.
Compassionate and dedicated board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner providing high-quality, empathetic, comprehensive, realistic and evidence-based care to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Proficient in psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. Skilled at working with clients to develop personalized treatment plans, prescribe psychiatric medications, and provide psychotherapeutic support to individuals across the lifespan.
(518) 348-4456 View (518) 348-4456
Photo of Venice Clarin Alagenio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Venice Clarin Alagenio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have provided mental health care for over 17 years, working with individuals facing complex conditions including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and trauma-related challenges.
I have provided mental health care for over 17 years, working with individuals facing complex conditions including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and trauma-related challenges.
(646) 212-0361 View (646) 212-0361

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Ailish Samuelson, Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Ailish Samuelson
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, BC
Eagle Bridge, NY 12057
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I was born and raised in upstate New York. I received by RN from Southern Vermont College. I then earned by BSN from SUNY Plattsburgh while working full time as a nurse manager of one of the wings of the Vermont Veterans Home. I found my love of mental health diagnosis and treatment while working with veterans and their families. This inspired me to then earn my training as a PMHNP from SUNY Stony Brook. I have experience in working with people of all ages and backgrounds, including substance use disorders.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I was born and raised in upstate New York. I received by RN from Southern Vermont College. I then earned by BSN from SUNY Plattsburgh while working full time as a nurse manager of one of the wings of the Vermont Veterans Home. I found my love of mental health diagnosis and treatment while working with veterans and their families. This inspired me to then earn my training as a PMHNP from SUNY Stony Brook. I have experience in working with people of all ages and backgrounds, including substance use disorders.
(518) 919-3982 View (518) 919-3982
Photo of Gundu Reddy - Telepsychiatry Upstate New York, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Telepsychiatry Upstate New York
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
3 Endorsed
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.
(518) 519-8503 View (518) 519-8503
Photo of Jenny Louissaint, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jenny Louissaint
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience in the mental health field and four years of advanced practice. I am committed to helping adults overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. I provide a virtual, safe space for clients to explore and address their mental health needs with empathy and expertise. My approach blends therapeutic knowledge with respect for each person’s unique story, and, where appropriate, faith-centered support. I strive to help clients regain stability, peace, and confidence in their lives.
Welcome! I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience in the mental health field and four years of advanced practice. I am committed to helping adults overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. I provide a virtual, safe space for clients to explore and address their mental health needs with empathy and expertise. My approach blends therapeutic knowledge with respect for each person’s unique story, and, where appropriate, faith-centered support. I strive to help clients regain stability, peace, and confidence in their lives.
(332) 264-1066 View (332) 264-1066
Photo of Elizabeth Mastro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Elizabeth Mastro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Elizabeth Mastro, NPP ANCC Board Certified Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner -Elizabeth received her Master's Degree and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification from Sage Graduate School. She has experience working in clinic settings with chronically mentally ill adults as well as in private practice providing psychopharmacology and therapy addressing all facets of mental health disorders.
Elizabeth Mastro, NPP ANCC Board Certified Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner -Elizabeth received her Master's Degree and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification from Sage Graduate School. She has experience working in clinic settings with chronically mentally ill adults as well as in private practice providing psychopharmacology and therapy addressing all facets of mental health disorders.
(518) 255-8108 View (518) 255-8108
Photo of Fhteachia Andrews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fhteachia Andrews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Albany, NY 12205
It's my pleasure to meet you! As a double board certified, Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, it would be my absolute pleasure to go along this journey with you as you seek to accomplish a peaceful balance within your physical and mental health well-being. I have been practicing for the past 11 years and specialize in supporting those within the ages of 6 to adults across the lifespan. It is my joy to support you to find peace, comfort and a sense of balance in your life.
It's my pleasure to meet you! As a double board certified, Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, it would be my absolute pleasure to go along this journey with you as you seek to accomplish a peaceful balance within your physical and mental health well-being. I have been practicing for the past 11 years and specialize in supporting those within the ages of 6 to adults across the lifespan. It is my joy to support you to find peace, comfort and a sense of balance in your life.
(332) 295-3265 View (332) 295-3265
Photo of Nichole M. Orofino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
Nichole M. Orofino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP
9 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
Spravato treatment for depression is now available in our Schenectady office. At Luminous Psychiatric our Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are dedicated and compassionate, specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Each is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. We believe in a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our providers work collaboratively with their patients, empowering them to actively participate in their treatment plans and achieve their mental health goals.
(518) 788-7983 View (518) 788-7983

See more therapy options for Warren County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Warren County, NY

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Warren County, NY who prioritize treating:

64% Depression
64% Anxiety
57% ADHD
57% Trauma and PTSD
57% Bipolar Disorder
50% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Medication Management

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
73% Cigna and Evernorth
73% CDPHP

How Psychiatrists in Warren County, NY see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Warren County?

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.