Psychiatrists in 11202
I am board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions and addiction issues. I have completed fellowship at the Institute of Psychoanalytic Education. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and am committed to providing compassionate, top quality mental health care and addiction problems that is customized to meet each of my patient's individual needs. Initial consultation consists of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. I will also carefully screen for commonly missed coexisting conditions.
I am board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions and addiction issues. I have completed fellowship at the Institute of Psychoanalytic Education. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and am committed to providing compassionate, top quality mental health care and addiction problems that is customized to meet each of my patient's individual needs. Initial consultation consists of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. I will also carefully screen for commonly missed coexisting conditions.
![Photo of Trevor Scudamore, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9beb414-7a9e-4374-969f-d8b8ce901ee0/1/320x400.jpeg)
An ideal patient for Dr. Trevor is someone who acknowledges their need for assistance, demonstrates a willingness to learn about their challenges, and is prepared to actively engage in making lifestyle changes conducive to their well-being. They should be curious about the world and willing to challenge themselves.
An ideal patient for Dr. Trevor is someone who acknowledges their need for assistance, demonstrates a willingness to learn about their challenges, and is prepared to actively engage in making lifestyle changes conducive to their well-being. They should be curious about the world and willing to challenge themselves.
![Photo of Kerry Callender, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e0c6e22-7c45-4775-bf81-7b8c73f59258/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry truly believes that being present and forming a team approach with patients is one of the most important aspects of patient care. Realizing that each patient is unique, working together with patients towards their goals, while being passionate about individual empowerment allows my skills to become another instrument they can use to navigate their lives. My focus is primarily on mood disorders, anxiety, depression and ADHD. assessment and safety planning.
Kerry truly believes that being present and forming a team approach with patients is one of the most important aspects of patient care. Realizing that each patient is unique, working together with patients towards their goals, while being passionate about individual empowerment allows my skills to become another instrument they can use to navigate their lives. My focus is primarily on mood disorders, anxiety, depression and ADHD. assessment and safety planning.
![Photo of Trevor Brown, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b44c4d45-0fcc-4b84-bf4b-5e95a3f7f487/1/320x400.png)
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing collaborative, holistic, and client-oriented care. My approach to treatment emphasizes improving self-esteem, enhancing meaning, and reducing suffering. I have an in-depth knowledge of psychiatric medications and their ability to increase energy, reduce symptoms, and improve daily functioning. However, medications are only one aspect of overall treatment. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, which I use to address issues with relationships, anxiety, and life transitions.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing collaborative, holistic, and client-oriented care. My approach to treatment emphasizes improving self-esteem, enhancing meaning, and reducing suffering. I have an in-depth knowledge of psychiatric medications and their ability to increase energy, reduce symptoms, and improve daily functioning. However, medications are only one aspect of overall treatment. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, which I use to address issues with relationships, anxiety, and life transitions.
![Photo of Ketrice-Ann Delonnay, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f411672-b3d4-4f2f-946b-1d96cec9be14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! My name is Ketrice and I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My career began at the bedside but I’ve always maintained a passion for knowing people. I’ve been academically prepared at Hofstra University, where I’m also obtaining my doctoral degree. I have experience working inpatient with the severely ill but also with those who just need some support through a rough time. I look forward to getting to know you!
Hi there! My name is Ketrice and I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. My career began at the bedside but I’ve always maintained a passion for knowing people. I’ve been academically prepared at Hofstra University, where I’m also obtaining my doctoral degree. I have experience working inpatient with the severely ill but also with those who just need some support through a rough time. I look forward to getting to know you!
![Photo of Veronica O’Meally-Tully, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8678cffd-04dd-486b-8fbe-23056ef1d3bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica O’Meally-Tully
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11202
Does your daily life suffer because of your mental health issues? You can’t seem to get a grip on your anxiety or depression? Are you looking for a compassionate ally in your mental health journey? You yearn for understanding and unwavering support, but don’t know where to turn? If you are struggling to navigate life's challenges, Veronica is dedicated to creating a safe space for you to work through these challenges.
Does your daily life suffer because of your mental health issues? You can’t seem to get a grip on your anxiety or depression? Are you looking for a compassionate ally in your mental health journey? You yearn for understanding and unwavering support, but don’t know where to turn? If you are struggling to navigate life's challenges, Veronica is dedicated to creating a safe space for you to work through these challenges.
![Photo of Kristoffer Acasio, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07a289f3-6ab7-4f86-bd29-4adb30938b75/2/320x400.png)
Kristoffer Acasio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11202 (Online Only)
Kristoffer Acasio is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Kristoffer strives to build a collaborative relationship with each patient while empowering them to achieve their personal goals. He has experience working with diverse populations to develop effective, well-rounded treatment plans. Kristoffer uses cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy. He helps his patients identify their feelings and symptoms, then guides them in learning new ways to manage those symptoms through medication management and therapy. Kristoffer works with patients ages 18-55.
Kristoffer Acasio is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Kristoffer strives to build a collaborative relationship with each patient while empowering them to achieve their personal goals. He has experience working with diverse populations to develop effective, well-rounded treatment plans. Kristoffer uses cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy. He helps his patients identify their feelings and symptoms, then guides them in learning new ways to manage those symptoms through medication management and therapy. Kristoffer works with patients ages 18-55.
![Photo of Kerry Callender, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cce55d1-9368-47f7-a788-027416323090/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kerry is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health provider, that offers initial consultations, medication management and talk therapy, in a non-judgemental therapeutic setting, that is centered around patient empowerment. Allowing an individual to define what wellness means for themselves, by encouraging patients to utilize a multidisciplinary treatment approach.
Kerry is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health provider, that offers initial consultations, medication management and talk therapy, in a non-judgemental therapeutic setting, that is centered around patient empowerment. Allowing an individual to define what wellness means for themselves, by encouraging patients to utilize a multidisciplinary treatment approach.
![Photo of Alexis Sciarrino, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79e20f05-3930-4caf-9f4a-46f0b6bef2b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Sciarrino, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry across the lifespan. Ms. Sciarrino received her Masters of Science degree from Hunter College. She has dedicated her life and her career to psychiatry. She strives to provide the most up to date evidence based care. She utilizes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to ensure positive treatment outcomes and long term success. She has successful experience working with patients diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorders as well as OCD, PTSD, Bipolar and ADHD diagnoses.
Alexis Sciarrino, PMHNP-BC is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry across the lifespan. Ms. Sciarrino received her Masters of Science degree from Hunter College. She has dedicated her life and her career to psychiatry. She strives to provide the most up to date evidence based care. She utilizes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to ensure positive treatment outcomes and long term success. She has successful experience working with patients diagnosed with anxiety and depressive disorders as well as OCD, PTSD, Bipolar and ADHD diagnoses.
![Photo of Riddhisha Shah, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/944c43d0-33e6-495e-a984-2aebcf1f3c7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Pace University with my Masters of Science. My aim is to help patients achieve their mental health needs through empathy and individualized treatment. I strive to use a holistic and patient centered approach to assist patients in overcoming their specific mental health challenges.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Pace University with my Masters of Science. My aim is to help patients achieve their mental health needs through empathy and individualized treatment. I strive to use a holistic and patient centered approach to assist patients in overcoming their specific mental health challenges.
![Photo of Melissa Docteur, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a6e050a-821c-448d-9e50-bb53faf4367b/2/320x400.png)
Melissa Docteur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11202 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Melissa Docteur and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my masters from Hunter college, and I also have a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Albany where I double majored in human biology and communications. My approach is to provide therapeutic and holistic care with medication management when necessary. As a PMHNP my goal is to provide a welcoming and safe space for patients to freely express themselves so that effective treatment can be provided.
Hello, my name is Melissa Docteur and I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I received my masters from Hunter college, and I also have a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Albany where I double majored in human biology and communications. My approach is to provide therapeutic and holistic care with medication management when necessary. As a PMHNP my goal is to provide a welcoming and safe space for patients to freely express themselves so that effective treatment can be provided.
![Photo of Cherly Dasler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3f5eebf-b350-46e4-906b-387493bd40b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cheryl Dasler is a double board certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Following completion of her training, she spent the next 10 years fulfilling her passion for indigent care of children, working in a community mental health center. She went on to complete additional training in Functional Medicine, with the goal of offering patients greater insight into the physical factors contributing to their symptoms. She has also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and encourages mindfulness as a healing technique along with medication management.
Dr. Cheryl Dasler is a double board certified psychiatrist in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Following completion of her training, she spent the next 10 years fulfilling her passion for indigent care of children, working in a community mental health center. She went on to complete additional training in Functional Medicine, with the goal of offering patients greater insight into the physical factors contributing to their symptoms. She has also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and encourages mindfulness as a healing technique along with medication management.
![Photo of Alexandra Dunn, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a9ec63b-9424-4d33-8f46-6e8c6d0b974d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dunn completed her medical training at University of California, Irvine School of Medicine and moved to New York to complete her psychiatric residency training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. During her training, she gained extensive clinical experience treating patients of all ages and backgrounds. She co-led a mindfulness group in the outpatient clinic, worked with students at Baruch College and rotated with the Assertive Community Treatment team at MSBI. Ultimately she chose to specialize in outpatient care, specifically treating patients with mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Dunn completed her medical training at University of California, Irvine School of Medicine and moved to New York to complete her psychiatric residency training at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. During her training, she gained extensive clinical experience treating patients of all ages and backgrounds. She co-led a mindfulness group in the outpatient clinic, worked with students at Baruch College and rotated with the Assertive Community Treatment team at MSBI. Ultimately she chose to specialize in outpatient care, specifically treating patients with mood and anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Lee Dockery, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18da1e6d-7bf4-4608-8edb-968e0a159b5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lee Dockery serves as a general pscyhiatry provider for Talkiatry since joining in August 2022. He is board-eligible with expected certification in fall 2022, with further addiction psychiatry board-certification expected in 2023. He has been training and practicing psychiatry since 2018. Dr. Dockery’s practice emphasizes medication management within a therapy-informed framework, utilizing skills from Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness based therapies, motivation interviewing, and supportive therapy. Typically, he offers 60-minute new visits and 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Lee Dockery serves as a general pscyhiatry provider for Talkiatry since joining in August 2022. He is board-eligible with expected certification in fall 2022, with further addiction psychiatry board-certification expected in 2023. He has been training and practicing psychiatry since 2018. Dr. Dockery’s practice emphasizes medication management within a therapy-informed framework, utilizing skills from Acceptance and Commitment therapy, mindfulness based therapies, motivation interviewing, and supportive therapy. Typically, he offers 60-minute new visits and 30-minute follow-up visits.
![Photo of Zeynep Altun, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5c03e1b-ce80-46f0-83f1-f724692b64fa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Zeynep Altun is Board-Certified in Psychiatry and holds a Ph.D. in Neuroscience. Dr. Altun has extensive theoretical knowledge of the nervous system and its disorders and more than 10 years of experience in treating various mental illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, autism-spectrum and neuropsychiatric disorders, psychiatric emergencies and crisis management as well as cognitive behavioral and supportive psychotherapy.
Dr. Zeynep Altun is Board-Certified in Psychiatry and holds a Ph.D. in Neuroscience. Dr. Altun has extensive theoretical knowledge of the nervous system and its disorders and more than 10 years of experience in treating various mental illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, autism-spectrum and neuropsychiatric disorders, psychiatric emergencies and crisis management as well as cognitive behavioral and supportive psychotherapy.
![Photo of Triesha Gayle-Lawson At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e2e1cae-b0d0-4c12-b5f2-88fffaddaaaa/1/320x400.png)
Triesha Gayle-Lawson At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11202 (Online Only)
Book an appointment on our website corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Gayle-Lawson has Board Certifications from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Gayle-Lawson is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society and is affiliated with several advanced practice organizations dedicated to patient advocacy and access to quality mental health care. With over 16 years of diagnostic and treatment experience, she is well versed in the practice of psychiatry and mental health.
Book an appointment on our website corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Gayle-Lawson has Board Certifications from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Gayle-Lawson is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society and is affiliated with several advanced practice organizations dedicated to patient advocacy and access to quality mental health care. With over 16 years of diagnostic and treatment experience, she is well versed in the practice of psychiatry and mental health.
![Photo of Daniel Weiss, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1906d23a-6dab-4c32-85ec-07a569719bff/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Weiss is a board-certified Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric conditions including: depression and bipolar spectrum disorders; anxiety; stress and adjustment problems; ADD/ADHD; maternal mental health; OCD; and other disorders. He has extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, college and graduate students, creative professionals, and the range of working adults. For the past decade, and prior to joining the staff of Talkiatry, Dr. Weiss worked at The New School as the university’s staff psychiatrist.
Dr. Weiss is a board-certified Staff Psychiatrist at Talkiatry with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric conditions including: depression and bipolar spectrum disorders; anxiety; stress and adjustment problems; ADD/ADHD; maternal mental health; OCD; and other disorders. He has extensive experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, college and graduate students, creative professionals, and the range of working adults. For the past decade, and prior to joining the staff of Talkiatry, Dr. Weiss worked at The New School as the university’s staff psychiatrist.
![Photo of Ilisse Perlmutter, MD, DLFAPA, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e1cc040-0bf6-42d8-b130-d31a1f470ed1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ilisse Perlmutter
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, DFAACAP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11202 (Online Only)
Dr. Perlmutter is the Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Talkiatry. She is double board certified in adult and child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Perlmutter was the Chair of Behavioral Health and Addiction Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. Prior to Bergen New Bridge, she was the Director of Inpatient Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center-Wakefield, in New York. Over 35 years, Dr. Perlmutter has held numerous leadership roles with some of the largest hospital systems in the New York Metro Area.
Dr. Perlmutter is the Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Talkiatry. She is double board certified in adult and child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. Prior to joining Talkiatry, Dr. Perlmutter was the Chair of Behavioral Health and Addiction Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. Prior to Bergen New Bridge, she was the Director of Inpatient Psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center-Wakefield, in New York. Over 35 years, Dr. Perlmutter has held numerous leadership roles with some of the largest hospital systems in the New York Metro Area.
![Photo of Ashley Mathai, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f4436e8-e964-4dc5-be89-283d1e116e37/1/320x400.png)
Ashley Mathai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11202 (Online Only)
Ashley Mathai is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Ashley partners with her patients to help them achieve their goals by providing holistic, personalized mental health care. During sessions, patients can expect active listening, respect, empathy, collaboration, and, most importantly, trust. She aims to support her patients so they can have holistic, culturally competent, wellness-focused services.
Ashley Mathai is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. Ashley partners with her patients to help them achieve their goals by providing holistic, personalized mental health care. During sessions, patients can expect active listening, respect, empathy, collaboration, and, most importantly, trust. She aims to support her patients so they can have holistic, culturally competent, wellness-focused services.
![Photo of Sebrina Henderson - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, FNP-BC, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f95fa7d-43dc-43fd-968f-f1d46e9fe0d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, NP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11202
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? Our NY board-certified Family Nurse Practitioners are here to help you. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses. We help women and families. We also have Medical Marijuana Practitioner.
Have you ever been prescribed medication and rushed out of the provider's door? No more! Are you in therapy now but feel like your symptoms are not improving? Our NY board-certified Family Nurse Practitioners are here to help you. We have experience in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses. We help women and families. We also have Medical Marijuana Practitioner.
See more therapy options for 11202
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 11202
20+
Average cost per session
$297
Psychiatrists in 11202 who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
92% | Medication Management |
88% | Depression |
80% | ADHD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Grief |
72% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 11202 see their clients
56% | Online Only | |
44% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
20% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 11202?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.