Psychiatrists in Westchester County, NY

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Photo of Parinda Parikh, MD, Psychiatrist
Parinda Parikh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10605
Trained in clinical and administrative skills, Dr. Parikh worked as a faculty at NYPH in Westchester since 2002. She had been the Chief of Eating disorder, treating inpatient and outpatient child, adolescent and adults. Her expertise has resulted in book chapters and few publications. She is now in full time, outpatient practice offering concierge medicine, 24/7 access to clinicians while offering integrative and holistic individualized psychiatric treatment. With goals of bridging gap between inpatient and weekly outpatient, We now offer a comprehensive approach to psychiatric treatment.
Trained in clinical and administrative skills, Dr. Parikh worked as a faculty at NYPH in Westchester since 2002. She had been the Chief of Eating disorder, treating inpatient and outpatient child, adolescent and adults. Her expertise has resulted in book chapters and few publications. She is now in full time, outpatient practice offering concierge medicine, 24/7 access to clinicians while offering integrative and holistic individualized psychiatric treatment. With goals of bridging gap between inpatient and weekly outpatient, We now offer a comprehensive approach to psychiatric treatment.
(914) 468-6084 View (914) 468-6084
Photo of Judit Lendvay, MD, Psychiatrist
Judit Lendvay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Hartsdale, NY 10530
Waitlist for new clients
Many of my patients found only temporary relief from prior treatments and are interested in a real change. If you are motivated and prefer someone who does not recommend medications easily and believes in getting to the root of problems, I may be the person for you. I am an experienced clinician, providing individualized treatment based on a thorough assessment. I have trained at Cornell and Columbia and I am on the faculty at both places. I am a training and supervising analyst as well as ISTFP certified training and supervising TFP therapist offering individual or group supervision.
Many of my patients found only temporary relief from prior treatments and are interested in a real change. If you are motivated and prefer someone who does not recommend medications easily and believes in getting to the root of problems, I may be the person for you. I am an experienced clinician, providing individualized treatment based on a thorough assessment. I have trained at Cornell and Columbia and I am on the faculty at both places. I am a training and supervising analyst as well as ISTFP certified training and supervising TFP therapist offering individual or group supervision.
(914) 810-3046 View (914) 810-3046
Photo of Emily Hyun, MD, Psychiatrist
Emily Hyun
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10605
Dr. Hyun is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the Yale School of Medicine, then continued at Yale for general psychiatry residency. In her final year of residency, she served as Chief Resident of the adolescent inpatient psychiatric unit. She then completed her child and adolescent psychiatry training at the NewYork-Presbyterian Columbia/Cornell combined program, where she was the recipient of the Edward J. Sachar Award for Clinical Excellence. Areas of additional focus during her training included college student mental health, eating disorders, and early psychosis.
Dr. Hyun is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. She received her medical degree from the Yale School of Medicine, then continued at Yale for general psychiatry residency. In her final year of residency, she served as Chief Resident of the adolescent inpatient psychiatric unit. She then completed her child and adolescent psychiatry training at the NewYork-Presbyterian Columbia/Cornell combined program, where she was the recipient of the Edward J. Sachar Award for Clinical Excellence. Areas of additional focus during her training included college student mental health, eating disorders, and early psychosis.
(646) 962-2820 View (646) 962-2820
Photo of Aleyamma John - Johns wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Johns wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Port Chester, NY 10573
Life can be filled with ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. During these times, it is crucial to have a compassionate presence to lean on. Whether you're seeking advice, a listening ear, or simply a comforting virtual presence, I am here to provide that support. Remember, you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is in these moments that a supportive person can make a world of difference. It is my purpose to be part of that journey, extending a virtual hand to help you navigate whatever you may be going through.
Life can be filled with ups and downs, and sometimes we find ourselves in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. During these times, it is crucial to have a compassionate presence to lean on. Whether you're seeking advice, a listening ear, or simply a comforting virtual presence, I am here to provide that support. Remember, you are not alone in your journey. We all face challenges and obstacles, and it is in these moments that a supportive person can make a world of difference. It is my purpose to be part of that journey, extending a virtual hand to help you navigate whatever you may be going through.
(914) 928-2664 View (914) 928-2664
Photo of Yehuda Lerea, MD, Psychiatrist
Yehuda Lerea
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ardsley, NY 10502
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing in Manhattan and Westchester, New York. I approach my work with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize an integrated and holistic approach to help my patients develop insight and greater awareness into their lived experience. I’m trained in various modalities of psychotherapy as well as medication management and often combine both. If working together, we will develop a treatment approach collaboratively that is consistent with your goals.
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist practicing in Manhattan and Westchester, New York. I approach my work with warmth and empathic curiosity and utilize an integrated and holistic approach to help my patients develop insight and greater awareness into their lived experience. I’m trained in various modalities of psychotherapy as well as medication management and often combine both. If working together, we will develop a treatment approach collaboratively that is consistent with your goals.
(914) 221-7587 View (914) 221-7587
Photo of Patrick Tigenoah - Tri-Star Behavioral Health Inc, FPMHNP, MSN, APRN, ANCC-BC, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tri-Star Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, MSN, APRN, ANCC-BC, BSN
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. I have expertise in providing Psychiatric Assessments, Medication Management, Individual and Family Psychotherapy. I specialize in Child/Adolescent, Young Adults, Adults and the Geriatric Population. Majority of my training and clinical experience has been at Bellevue Hospital, VA Hospitals and the Prison System.
I am a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is Board Certified. I have expertise in providing Psychiatric Assessments, Medication Management, Individual and Family Psychotherapy. I specialize in Child/Adolescent, Young Adults, Adults and the Geriatric Population. Majority of my training and clinical experience has been at Bellevue Hospital, VA Hospitals and the Prison System.
(646) 863-4287 View (646) 863-4287
Thomas Psychiatry NP PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
New Rochelle, NY 10801
I am a board certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating patients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and specializing in addiction.
I am a board certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner treating patients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder and specializing in addiction.
(914) 908-6224 View (914) 908-6224
Photo of Leonid Stosman, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leonid Stosman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As your dedicated provider, I am here to support you every step of the way on your mental health journey. I'm committed to helping you find meaningful solutions to ease suffering and ignite a newfound sense of hope for the future. We'll work collaboratively to identify your goals and pave the way to a deeper and more meaningful life experience.
As your dedicated provider, I am here to support you every step of the way on your mental health journey. I'm committed to helping you find meaningful solutions to ease suffering and ignite a newfound sense of hope for the future. We'll work collaboratively to identify your goals and pave the way to a deeper and more meaningful life experience.
(914) 604-2056 View (914) 604-2056
Photo of Maria Shalukhova, AGNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Shalukhova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Maria Shalukhova has a dual degree as an adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric nurse practitioner, utilizing her knowledge and skills in both specialties. She is well-versed in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional disorders in individuals, including those with dementia, and utilizing medication management along with CBT.
Maria Shalukhova has a dual degree as an adult nurse practitioner and psychiatric nurse practitioner, utilizing her knowledge and skills in both specialties. She is well-versed in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional disorders in individuals, including those with dementia, and utilizing medication management along with CBT.
(914) 292-7710 View (914) 292-7710
Photo of Yonghong Tan, MD, Psychiatrist
Yonghong Tan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Life can be hard. We all have our breaking points. You have done your best to overcome it. It really takes courage to start looking for help. Hello and welcome to ZenMind Clinic. I am a psychiatrist with training from The Institute of Mental Health, Peking University, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and New York University, and hold double board certifications in both general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. Over the last five years, I had the privilege of overseeing the psycho-oncology clinic at Norwalk Hospital, as well as serving as a core teaching faculty member within the Nuvance psychiatry residency program.
Life can be hard. We all have our breaking points. You have done your best to overcome it. It really takes courage to start looking for help. Hello and welcome to ZenMind Clinic. I am a psychiatrist with training from The Institute of Mental Health, Peking University, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and New York University, and hold double board certifications in both general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. Over the last five years, I had the privilege of overseeing the psycho-oncology clinic at Norwalk Hospital, as well as serving as a core teaching faculty member within the Nuvance psychiatry residency program.
(203) 660-0687 View (203) 660-0687
Photo of Elizabeth Lokenauth, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant
Elizabeth Lokenauth
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-Psy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy with teenagers and adults struggling anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc. I am currently accepting telehealth patients in the state of NY. We do accept out of network benefits.
I specialize in medication management and psychotherapy with teenagers and adults struggling anxiety, depression, ADHD, etc. I am currently accepting telehealth patients in the state of NY. We do accept out of network benefits.
(407) 993-2347 View (407) 993-2347
Photo of Joseph Rivera - LifeStance Health, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Tarrytown, NY 10591
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(914) 256-2394 View (914) 256-2394
Photo of Naveed Hussain Iqbal - MedicalPsych Care, MD, Psychiatrist
MedicalPsych Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Elmsford, NY 10523
Naveed Iqbal, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist from The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Iqbal has over 42 years of clinical, teaching and academic experience in treatment of Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction Disorders, Psychotic Spectrum Disorders. Dr, Iqbal has received his specialized training in Psychiatry from Columbia University and Montefiore Medical Center / Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Patients receive Diagnostic assessment, pharmacological treatment, cognitive and individual therapy, TMS, Nasal and IV Ketaamine.
Naveed Iqbal, M.D. is a Board Certified Psychiatrist from The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Iqbal has over 42 years of clinical, teaching and academic experience in treatment of Treatment Resistant Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction Disorders, Psychotic Spectrum Disorders. Dr, Iqbal has received his specialized training in Psychiatry from Columbia University and Montefiore Medical Center / Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Patients receive Diagnostic assessment, pharmacological treatment, cognitive and individual therapy, TMS, Nasal and IV Ketaamine.
(914) 274-4071 View (914) 274-4071
Photo of Christine Aranyi - Exit 9 Health, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Exit 9 Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed by stress, difficulty sleeping, troublesome or racing thoughts, or other mental health challenges? You are not alone. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience in primary care and mental health. My goal is to provide comprehensive and personalized care to individuals seeking support for their mental well-being.
Feeling overwhelmed by stress, difficulty sleeping, troublesome or racing thoughts, or other mental health challenges? You are not alone. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience in primary care and mental health. My goal is to provide comprehensive and personalized care to individuals seeking support for their mental well-being.
(347) 572-7136 View (347) 572-7136
Photo of Dimitry Francois, Psychiatrist
Dimitry Francois
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, NY 10528
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 Hallie Knopf, MD, Psychiatrist
Hallie Knopf
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Rye, NY 10580
Dr. Hallie Knopf is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Knopf specializes in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, which includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual symptoms. Dr. Knopf provides treatment for people suffering from mood and anxiety disorders related to different reproductive situations through medication management and psychotherapy. She also provides perinatal psychiatric consultations for women treated by other providers.
Dr. Hallie Knopf is a board certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Knopf specializes in women’s mental health and reproductive psychiatry, which includes emotional and psychological problems during pregnancy, postpartum, perinatal losses, infertility, menopause, perimenopause and premenstrual symptoms. Dr. Knopf provides treatment for people suffering from mood and anxiety disorders related to different reproductive situations through medication management and psychotherapy. She also provides perinatal psychiatric consultations for women treated by other providers.
(516) 961-1171 View (516) 961-1171
Photo of Hasan Asif, MD, Psychiatrist
Hasan Asif
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bronxville, NY 10708
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 23 years of experience in private practice. As the founder and Clinical Director of the Brain Wellness Center, I blend the art of healing with neuroscience to provide comprehensive and objective evaluations and treatments for the body, brain, and mind. At the Brain Wellness Center, we offer neuropsychotherapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, and Neurofeedback training. This holistic approach addresses trauma, addictions, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and extends to enhancing stress resilience, wellness, and optimization.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 23 years of experience in private practice. As the founder and Clinical Director of the Brain Wellness Center, I blend the art of healing with neuroscience to provide comprehensive and objective evaluations and treatments for the body, brain, and mind. At the Brain Wellness Center, we offer neuropsychotherapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, and Neurofeedback training. This holistic approach addresses trauma, addictions, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and extends to enhancing stress resilience, wellness, and optimization.
(914) 793-0900 View (914) 793-0900
Photo of Erika Marshall, MD, Psychiatrist
Erika Marshall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chappaqua, NY 10514
I am a board certified psychiatrist practicing in Chappaqua, NY in Northern Westchester as well as online. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (medication management) for adults and older adolescents. I treat a wide variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, women's mental health and working with parents of children with special needs.
I am a board certified psychiatrist practicing in Chappaqua, NY in Northern Westchester as well as online. I provide consultation, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (medication management) for adults and older adolescents. I treat a wide variety of mental health conditions with particular interests in anxiety disorders, depression and other mood disorders, women's mental health and working with parents of children with special needs.
(914) 864-0966 View (914) 864-0966
Photo of Carol L Kessler, MD, MDiv, Psychiatrist
Carol L Kessler
Psychiatrist, MD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Online Only
I serve children, adolescents and adults who are in need of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I am able to prescribe medication when indicated, yet make this decision in the context of an evaluation of psychological, social, spiritual and familial circumstances. I strive to provide a compassionate, safe space for those seeking my care.
I serve children, adolescents and adults who are in need of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I am able to prescribe medication when indicated, yet make this decision in the context of an evaluation of psychological, social, spiritual and familial circumstances. I strive to provide a compassionate, safe space for those seeking my care.
(914) 819-5002 View (914) 819-5002
Photo of Iman Hines, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Iman Hines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Yonkers, NY 10704
Through my patient focused, individualized treatment, I will assist you in the implementation of a lifestyle transformation that addresses the mind, body, soul and spirit. My ideal patient is a professional or entrepreneur who is success- driven and amenable to a lifestyle overhaul that addresses nutrition, exercise, structure and affirmative mental training. This client appreciates a solution-based, action-driven approach to achieving their goals.
Through my patient focused, individualized treatment, I will assist you in the implementation of a lifestyle transformation that addresses the mind, body, soul and spirit. My ideal patient is a professional or entrepreneur who is success- driven and amenable to a lifestyle overhaul that addresses nutrition, exercise, structure and affirmative mental training. This client appreciates a solution-based, action-driven approach to achieving their goals.
(914) 502-4504 View (914) 502-4504
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Westchester County, NY

200+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Westchester County, NY who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
96% Anxiety
83% Medication Management
75% ADHD
74% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Westchester County, NY see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Westchester 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.