Psychiatrists in Westchester, NY

Photo of Katie Jones - Doorways to Peace Pediatrics , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-PC
Doorways to Peace Pediatrics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-PC
Online Only
At Doorways To Peace Pediatrics, we're committed to providing comprehensive, personalized care that helps children heal and thrive. Led by Katie Jones, a dual-certified Pediatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, we offer comprehensive care for children aged 3-17. Our integrative approach combines evidence-based practices and goes beyond just treating symptoms – we advocate for our patients, promoting resilience and enhancing overall wellness through "whole-child" centered care. By combining professional expertise with parental insight, we strive to open doorways to peace for every child under our care.
At Doorways To Peace Pediatrics, we're committed to providing comprehensive, personalized care that helps children heal and thrive. Led by Katie Jones, a dual-certified Pediatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, we offer comprehensive care for children aged 3-17. Our integrative approach combines evidence-based practices and goes beyond just treating symptoms – we advocate for our patients, promoting resilience and enhancing overall wellness through "whole-child" centered care. By combining professional expertise with parental insight, we strive to open doorways to peace for every child under our care.
(646) 506-4153 View (646) 506-4153
Photo of Kathy Roberts, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Kathy Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
I am dedicated to supporting the well-being of individuals, their families, and the community through prevention, intervention, treatment, medication management, and education. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique and that healing takes time. Everyone on this journey deserves to be heard and treated with respect. I approach individuals seeking care with empathy and will work tirelessly with them and their families to help them find their successful path.
I am dedicated to supporting the well-being of individuals, their families, and the community through prevention, intervention, treatment, medication management, and education. I understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique and that healing takes time. Everyone on this journey deserves to be heard and treated with respect. I approach individuals seeking care with empathy and will work tirelessly with them and their families to help them find their successful path.
(669) 271-0704 View (669) 271-0704
Photo of Chineze I Worthington - WorthyMind psychiatry practice, Psychiatrist, MD
WorthyMind psychiatry practice
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My ideal client is curious about themselves and willing to look inward. She or he may be struggling with issues of self sabotage, avoidance, or even denial with regards to what really sources their sadness, their depression, their anxiety and the constant dis-sense with happiness. He or she is looking to make progress towards building a life that is truly their own, even if it's not currently being validated by the external world. Find out more here: https://secure.helloalma.com/providers/chineze-worthington/
My ideal client is curious about themselves and willing to look inward. She or he may be struggling with issues of self sabotage, avoidance, or even denial with regards to what really sources their sadness, their depression, their anxiety and the constant dis-sense with happiness. He or she is looking to make progress towards building a life that is truly their own, even if it's not currently being validated by the external world. Find out more here: https://secure.helloalma.com/providers/chineze-worthington/
(914) 221-0534 View (914) 221-0534
Photo of Katelyn Burgo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Katelyn Burgo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
My clients generally have the goal of having a collaborative partnership with their provider. My clients are honest with me and allow a trusting relationship to develop so that we can come up with an appropriate treatment plan together. My clients also not only utilize medication management to alleviate their symptoms but also participate in recommended lifestyle changes and choices to accelerate their mental health journey. If you are interested in using a combination of medication and holistic practice to alleviate your mental health systems, we will most likely be a good fit!
My clients generally have the goal of having a collaborative partnership with their provider. My clients are honest with me and allow a trusting relationship to develop so that we can come up with an appropriate treatment plan together. My clients also not only utilize medication management to alleviate their symptoms but also participate in recommended lifestyle changes and choices to accelerate their mental health journey. If you are interested in using a combination of medication and holistic practice to alleviate your mental health systems, we will most likely be a good fit!
(607) 703-3191 View (607) 703-3191
Photo of Anu Vazhappilly - Vazhappilly Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vazhappilly Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Vazhappilly Wellness. My name is Anu Vazhappilly and I am a board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of dedicated service to those navigating life's intricate challenges. My commitment to patient-centered care blends holistic principles with a profound understanding of psychodynamic and humanistic approaches. Specializing in guiding individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and ADHD with the innovative application of EMDR Therapy. Vazhappilly Wellness is deeply rooted in cultural sensitivity, ensuring that every individual's unique background is honored and respected.
Welcome to Vazhappilly Wellness. My name is Anu Vazhappilly and I am a board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of dedicated service to those navigating life's intricate challenges. My commitment to patient-centered care blends holistic principles with a profound understanding of psychodynamic and humanistic approaches. Specializing in guiding individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and ADHD with the innovative application of EMDR Therapy. Vazhappilly Wellness is deeply rooted in cultural sensitivity, ensuring that every individual's unique background is honored and respected.
(914) 877-2431 View (914) 877-2431
Photo of Tara Kerner, Psychiatrist, DO
Tara Kerner
Psychiatrist, DO
Online Only
I am an adult psychiatrist with a license to practice in CT and NY. I work with a variety of patients; from people having difficulties adjusting to new life situations to those suffering with depression and anxiety. With my patients, we decide together what kind of therapy would best suit their individual needs. Sometimes it's weekly therapy and sometimes I may recommend medication. The overall goal is always the same: to help you gain an understanding of the problem at hand, to support you in the process of recovery, and to complete treatment with a healthier and happier frame of mind and body.
I am an adult psychiatrist with a license to practice in CT and NY. I work with a variety of patients; from people having difficulties adjusting to new life situations to those suffering with depression and anxiety. With my patients, we decide together what kind of therapy would best suit their individual needs. Sometimes it's weekly therapy and sometimes I may recommend medication. The overall goal is always the same: to help you gain an understanding of the problem at hand, to support you in the process of recovery, and to complete treatment with a healthier and happier frame of mind and body.
(917) 446-7014 View (917) 446-7014
Photo of Lesley Cano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
Lesley Cano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, My name is Lesley! I have been working in behavioral health for almost a decade and within that time I have been a mental provider for 6 yrs creating treatment plans that change lives and minds on a daily basis. I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked with a diverse population of clients throughout my years of clinical experience in various psychiatric settings such as inpatient psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, and residential treatment programs. I specialize in treating clients that have depression, mood disorders, women's mental health disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD.
Hi, My name is Lesley! I have been working in behavioral health for almost a decade and within that time I have been a mental provider for 6 yrs creating treatment plans that change lives and minds on a daily basis. I am a compassionate and dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner that has worked with a diverse population of clients throughout my years of clinical experience in various psychiatric settings such as inpatient psychiatry, outpatient psychiatry, and residential treatment programs. I specialize in treating clients that have depression, mood disorders, women's mental health disorders, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD.
(929) 429-4667 View (929) 429-4667
Photo of Sibimol A. Niravath, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Sibimol A. Niravath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome to Nurtured Minds Psychiatry. I am Sibimol Niravath, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). If you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, PTSD, or depression, or facing challenges like addiction, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or relationship issues, I’m here to help. You deserve compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs in a supportive and inclusive space. My goal is to make quality care accessible and guide you toward healing, clarity, and lasting well-being. Let’s take the next step together!
Welcome to Nurtured Minds Psychiatry. I am Sibimol Niravath, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). If you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, PTSD, or depression, or facing challenges like addiction, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or relationship issues, I’m here to help. You deserve compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs in a supportive and inclusive space. My goal is to make quality care accessible and guide you toward healing, clarity, and lasting well-being. Let’s take the next step together!
(631) 859-7255 View (631) 859-7255
Photo of Yuriy Bortnik, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Yuriy Bortnik
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently affiliated with Readywell Psychiatry. In tandem with our psychopharmacological treatment, I tend to encourage targeted psychotherapy alongside for those patients who do not currently have therapists. However, everyone is unique and I am glad to evaluate individual needs!
Currently affiliated with Readywell Psychiatry. In tandem with our psychopharmacological treatment, I tend to encourage targeted psychotherapy alongside for those patients who do not currently have therapists. However, everyone is unique and I am glad to evaluate individual needs!
(917) 920-5043 View (917) 920-5043
Photo of Dimitry Francois, Psychiatrist
Dimitry Francois
Psychiatrist
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an Ivy League-trained and triple-board certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. My expertise is in diagnosing and treating complex psychiatric conditions, including late-life depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, substance use, and other disorders.
I am an Ivy League-trained and triple-board certified psychiatrist in general psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. My expertise is in diagnosing and treating complex psychiatric conditions, including late-life depression, bipolar spectrum disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, substance use, and other disorders.
(914) 477-2906 View (914) 477-2906
Photo of Aparna Dole, Psychiatrist, MD
Aparna Dole
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I have more than 10 years of experience working with clients with depression and anxiety. I am currently an Inpatient Psychiatrist at NYU Langone Brooklyn. I believe in a person-centered care model, empowering the client, providing care that is respectful of, and responsive to, individual preferences, needs, and values, and ensuring that client values guide all clinical decisions. I strive to treat the client as a whole and focus more on the client’s problems than on their diagnosis while fostering a trusting relationship.
I have more than 10 years of experience working with clients with depression and anxiety. I am currently an Inpatient Psychiatrist at NYU Langone Brooklyn. I believe in a person-centered care model, empowering the client, providing care that is respectful of, and responsive to, individual preferences, needs, and values, and ensuring that client values guide all clinical decisions. I strive to treat the client as a whole and focus more on the client’s problems than on their diagnosis while fostering a trusting relationship.
(646) 687-4868 View (646) 687-4868
Photo of Nicola Rivers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Nicola Rivers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals of all ages. With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve optimal mental well-being.
Currently accepting new clients. I am board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a passion for providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals of all ages. With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve optimal mental well-being.
(518) 759-6655 View (518) 759-6655
Photo of Mark D'agostino, Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MSc
Mark D'agostino
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MSc
Serves Area
Dr. D'Agostino is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and has a subspeciality Board Certification in Addiction Medicine; he is a Suboxone provider, and treats a variety of substance use disorders with medication assisted treatment (MAT) and therapy (as needed). He specializes in the treatment of adults and late-adolescents, with expertise in medication management and therapy for conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opioid and alcohol use disorder.
Dr. D'Agostino is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and has a subspeciality Board Certification in Addiction Medicine; he is a Suboxone provider, and treats a variety of substance use disorders with medication assisted treatment (MAT) and therapy (as needed). He specializes in the treatment of adults and late-adolescents, with expertise in medication management and therapy for conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opioid and alcohol use disorder.
(833) 735-0559 View (833) 735-0559
Photo of Franchesca Ali - Franchesca Ali, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Franchesca Ali, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client is someone facing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or OCD, seeking compassionate, holistic care. They need a safe space to explore their emotions, tailored treatment plans, and support for achieving recovery and balance. Their goal is to improve well-being, manage symptoms effectively, and regain control of their lives. They value personalized, culturally sensitive care that empowers them to thrive and grow. Together, we build resilience and foster lasting health. I also specialize in helping others go through stressful life transitions.
My ideal client is someone facing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, or OCD, seeking compassionate, holistic care. They need a safe space to explore their emotions, tailored treatment plans, and support for achieving recovery and balance. Their goal is to improve well-being, manage symptoms effectively, and regain control of their lives. They value personalized, culturally sensitive care that empowers them to thrive and grow. Together, we build resilience and foster lasting health. I also specialize in helping others go through stressful life transitions.
(929) 348-2041 View (929) 348-2041
Photo of Eva Levy, Psychiatrist, MD
Eva Levy
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist based in Westchester, New York. My practice is guided by warmth and compassion to further my understanding of my patients. I utilize my training in various psychotherapy modalities and psychopharmacology to craft a personalized treatment plan, as patients may benefit from therapy, medications, or a combination of both.
I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist based in Westchester, New York. My practice is guided by warmth and compassion to further my understanding of my patients. I utilize my training in various psychotherapy modalities and psychopharmacology to craft a personalized treatment plan, as patients may benefit from therapy, medications, or a combination of both.
(914) 996-2956 View (914) 996-2956
Photo of Wendy Coster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC, ANP, -C
Wendy Coster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC, ANP, -C
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I’ve been practicing in medicine for two decades; first as an RN, and then as an Adult NP. I worked with clients through depression, anxiety, grief, sleep disorders, pain, and chronic and acute medical conditions, for end of life care, and interventional procedures. After seeing the difficulty my patients were having accessing more specialized mental health care, I decided to advance my degree and completed my Post Masters as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan at SUNY Stony Brook. I offer mental health care in NY & CT primarily via telehealth and meet with clients in person on an as needed basis.
Welcome! I’ve been practicing in medicine for two decades; first as an RN, and then as an Adult NP. I worked with clients through depression, anxiety, grief, sleep disorders, pain, and chronic and acute medical conditions, for end of life care, and interventional procedures. After seeing the difficulty my patients were having accessing more specialized mental health care, I decided to advance my degree and completed my Post Masters as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan at SUNY Stony Brook. I offer mental health care in NY & CT primarily via telehealth and meet with clients in person on an as needed basis.
View
Photo of Valentina Cimolai Md, Psychiatrist, NY, FL, CA, VA
Valentina Cimolai Md
Psychiatrist, NY, FL, CA, VA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. You will have exclusive access to concierge psychiatric care: flexible, discreet, effective and simple-to-access tailored care from the comfort of your home.
Are you wondering what else you can do for your mental health? At Bloom Psychiatry And Wellness, we go above and beyond. We are attentive listeners and caring clinicians. You will have exclusive access to concierge psychiatric care: flexible, discreet, effective and simple-to-access tailored care from the comfort of your home.
(727) 205-7993 View (727) 205-7993
Photo of Dr. Tasia Henderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Tasia Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Serves Area
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences. For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qbtech Testing .
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences. For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qbtech Testing .
(848) 279-0533 View (848) 279-0533
Photo of Annie Jie Xu, Psychiatrist
Annie Jie Xu
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Annie Xu is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in general psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine. She received her general psychiatry training at New York Medical College and completed specialized fellowship training in psychosomatic medicine and psycho-oncology at Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Xu has expertise in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, adjustment issues related to trauma, medical illness, life transitions, and grief in addition to unique therapy modalities specific to cancer related diagnoses.
Dr. Annie Xu is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in general psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine. She received her general psychiatry training at New York Medical College and completed specialized fellowship training in psychosomatic medicine and psycho-oncology at Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Xu has expertise in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, adjustment issues related to trauma, medical illness, life transitions, and grief in addition to unique therapy modalities specific to cancer related diagnoses.
(914) 292-7935 View (914) 292-7935
Photo of Magalie Payen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Magalie Payen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you struggling with feeling sad, anxious or feeling stuck, not coping after the loss of a loved one, a pet or a relationship, adjusting to new diagnosis, or a life transition? You are certainly not alone, now might be the time to seek help
Are you struggling with feeling sad, anxious or feeling stuck, not coping after the loss of a loved one, a pet or a relationship, adjusting to new diagnosis, or a life transition? You are certainly not alone, now might be the time to seek help
(929) 381-0662 View (929) 381-0662

See more therapy options for Westchester

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Westchester, NY

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in Westchester, NY who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
83% Medication Management
72% Bipolar Disorder
69% ADHD
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Westchester, NY see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Westchester?

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.