Psychiatrists in 11211
Stacey Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I decided to become a nurse to have a positive impact on the lives of my clients. My favorite quote is “Your illness does not define you. Your strength and courage do.” – Unknown. I have experience working with patients struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, gender dysphoria, panic attacks, ADHD (children and adults) and PANDAS. I enjoy working with all conditions. I also work with patients dealing with substance use disorders.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I decided to become a nurse to have a positive impact on the lives of my clients. My favorite quote is “Your illness does not define you. Your strength and courage do.” – Unknown. I have experience working with patients struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, gender dysphoria, panic attacks, ADHD (children and adults) and PANDAS. I enjoy working with all conditions. I also work with patients dealing with substance use disorders.
![Photo of Christelle Dubic, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5e22559-c78a-4004-b1d8-13bea6db6e22/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christelle Dubic is an experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating children and adults with various mental health conditions. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions. She provides quality mental healthcare to people of diverse backgrounds. After each session, her patients will walk away feeling heard and valued.
Christelle Dubic is an experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating children and adults with various mental health conditions. She specializes in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions. She provides quality mental healthcare to people of diverse backgrounds. After each session, her patients will walk away feeling heard and valued.
![Photo of Henrietta Okpala, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4aa459a-4461-4baa-9ca5-c1071be35ea5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, DNP, PMHNP-BC, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those who have Mood Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Schizoaffective D/O, Bipolar D/O, Autism Spectrum, Intellectual Disabilities, geriatric population, young adults to geriatrics population and people with gender identity disorder.
Hello there! I'm Dr. Henrietta O. Okpala, DNP, PMHNP-BC, your friendly neighborhood Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm all about giving you the kind of mental health care that feels like it's made just for you and your loved ones. My mission? To be there for everyone who needs help, especially those who have Mood Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Schizoaffective D/O, Bipolar D/O, Autism Spectrum, Intellectual Disabilities, geriatric population, young adults to geriatrics population and people with gender identity disorder.
![Photo of Kimberly Jackson, MSN , FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca8727a1-85d6-4d24-b8de-3f4cc3b3147e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
I'm so glad you found me! I have 30 years of experience and am double board certified in family medicine and psychiatry. Many of the major insurances are accepted. I treat adults 18 and over, with specialty training in women's mental health, perinatal & reproductive psychiatry. My undergraduate education is from New York University & I have masters degrees from George Washington University & Pace University. I am a former professor at the College of New Rochelle. -Email us or visit wellspaceforwomen.com for a free phone consultation.
I'm so glad you found me! I have 30 years of experience and am double board certified in family medicine and psychiatry. Many of the major insurances are accepted. I treat adults 18 and over, with specialty training in women's mental health, perinatal & reproductive psychiatry. My undergraduate education is from New York University & I have masters degrees from George Washington University & Pace University. I am a former professor at the College of New Rochelle. -Email us or visit wellspaceforwomen.com for a free phone consultation.
![Photo of Olivier Djoumessi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75809261-1001-49bc-ae4c-4874f1167c71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with eight years of healthcare experience. I am dedicated, compassionate, and patient focused. My approach to care combines medication management with supportive therapy, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome personal challenges through a comprehensive and integrative method. I believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapies, psychoeducation, and motivational interviewing, tailoring each treatment plan to the unique needs of my patients.
![Photo of Jeremy Walsh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65478d78-96b3-4be8-933d-f188075de572/1/320x400.png)
Jeremy Walsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
Hello there! It can be very challenging asking for help and sometimes even harder finding the help you need. Rest assured that you will be invited to explore your thoughts and feelings in a nonjudgmental space.
Hello there! It can be very challenging asking for help and sometimes even harder finding the help you need. Rest assured that you will be invited to explore your thoughts and feelings in a nonjudgmental space.
![Photo of Jacquescr Lucien, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4208a397-80ef-40de-adb6-782d012dcd6b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Jacques Lucien, DNP-PMHNP. In my work with patients, I often incorporate traditional and non-traditional therapeutic approaches based on the needs of the individual patient. My orientation is integrative/holistic, and I typically use a combination of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and motivational interviewing techniques in my work. I have worked with patients across the lifespan and have experience treating common diagnoses, such as depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, and serious mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective, and bipolar disorder.
I am Jacques Lucien, DNP-PMHNP. In my work with patients, I often incorporate traditional and non-traditional therapeutic approaches based on the needs of the individual patient. My orientation is integrative/holistic, and I typically use a combination of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and motivational interviewing techniques in my work. I have worked with patients across the lifespan and have experience treating common diagnoses, such as depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, and serious mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective, and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Raviv Berlin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b0472ea-3317-487d-ba81-8eb5867ff2b8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with advanced training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical expertise working with college students and young adults. I am licensed to practice medicine in New York and Connecticut. I specialize in treating adolescents and young adults with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship difficulties, and challenging life transitions. My style is guided by warmth, compassion, and flexibility and I work collaboratively with patients to create treatment plans individualized to their specific needs.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with advanced training in child and adolescent psychiatry and clinical expertise working with college students and young adults. I am licensed to practice medicine in New York and Connecticut. I specialize in treating adolescents and young adults with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relationship difficulties, and challenging life transitions. My style is guided by warmth, compassion, and flexibility and I work collaboratively with patients to create treatment plans individualized to their specific needs.
![Photo of Jessica Parente, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8478579b-25ad-4f72-ade3-61c0b4d86e04/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Jess! I am an ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, an ICF & CPD Accredited Somatic Trauma-Informed Coach, and a Level IV Brainspotting Provider. I believe the attunement and therapeutic alliance between the provider and the client to be the most crucial part of mental health care. I make it my goal to foster a non-judgmental environment of safety, one where you feel comfortable to “come exactly as you are,” regardless of what that means.
Hi, I'm Jess! I am an ANCC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, an ICF & CPD Accredited Somatic Trauma-Informed Coach, and a Level IV Brainspotting Provider. I believe the attunement and therapeutic alliance between the provider and the client to be the most crucial part of mental health care. I make it my goal to foster a non-judgmental environment of safety, one where you feel comfortable to “come exactly as you are,” regardless of what that means.
![Photo of Nahil Chohan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4db0e81-99a2-4c23-bf2e-7135fa5d5106/1/320x400.jpeg)
Did life take an unexpected turn? Are you feeling frustrated or having difficulty with relationships, work, or school? Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or unhappiness? We have all gone through uncertainties in our lives. You are not alone. Come and let’s talk about anything on your mind. I will take the time to listen. We will explore your life-present and past. We will understand your core self. I will help you embrace your unique identity.
Did life take an unexpected turn? Are you feeling frustrated or having difficulty with relationships, work, or school? Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or unhappiness? We have all gone through uncertainties in our lives. You are not alone. Come and let’s talk about anything on your mind. I will take the time to listen. We will explore your life-present and past. We will understand your core self. I will help you embrace your unique identity.
![Photo of Ariel Cotallat, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d07ff407-db12-4baa-a0e4-32a0d9226352/1/320x400.png)
Ariel Cotallat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Ari. I specialize in helping individuals manage conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD through medication management and brief supportive therapy. I also provide support for personal challenges including relationships, self-esteem, and sexual health. Drawing from my own experiences within the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, I create a practice that is deeply inclusive and affirming. This unique perspective allows me to connect authentically with each person I work with, ensuring our journey together is both healing and empowering.
Hello, my name is Ari. I specialize in helping individuals manage conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD through medication management and brief supportive therapy. I also provide support for personal challenges including relationships, self-esteem, and sexual health. Drawing from my own experiences within the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, I create a practice that is deeply inclusive and affirming. This unique perspective allows me to connect authentically with each person I work with, ensuring our journey together is both healing and empowering.
15 Second Videos
Henrietta Okpala
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Ariel Cotallat
Scott Shapiro MD - Specializing in Adult ADHD
Hisla Bates, MD
![Photo of Ayokunmi Aluko, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e454466b-c941-4bf3-9128-54e49604ed09/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ayokunmi Aluko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
Kunmi is a warm and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with several years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan in various settings. She graduated with highest honors from Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing Degree.
Kunmi is a warm and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with several years of experience treating individuals across the lifespan in various settings. She graduated with highest honors from Walden University with a Master of Science in Nursing Degree.
Catherine Nwora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
Catherine Nwora is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate nursing degree from Arkansas Tech University and her Master’s of Science in Nursing from University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and Post-Masters specializing in psychiatry. With 6 years with a psychiatric nurse experience and 2 years with an FNP experience, she has treated patients with acute and chronic depression, anxiety and panic, ADHD, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis, among others.
Catherine Nwora is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She received her undergraduate nursing degree from Arkansas Tech University and her Master’s of Science in Nursing from University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and Post-Masters specializing in psychiatry. With 6 years with a psychiatric nurse experience and 2 years with an FNP experience, she has treated patients with acute and chronic depression, anxiety and panic, ADHD, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis, among others.
![Photo of Daferti Afflick, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55806917-38ff-4d90-ab86-8a72c1f8be43/1/320x400.jpeg)
Based in Brooklyn, NY, Ms. Daferti Afflick is a dedicated adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner offering virtual consultations at Orenda Psychiatry. With a master's degree in nursing from Molloy University, Ms. Afflick is skilled at managing various mental health concerns. She helps patients deal with issues like anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and post-traumatic stress disorder. She also offers prescription refills.
Based in Brooklyn, NY, Ms. Daferti Afflick is a dedicated adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner offering virtual consultations at Orenda Psychiatry. With a master's degree in nursing from Molloy University, Ms. Afflick is skilled at managing various mental health concerns. She helps patients deal with issues like anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and post-traumatic stress disorder. She also offers prescription refills.
![Photo of Alexander S Grewal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46022c19-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexander S Grewal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I've worked at length with a wide variety of people. From counseling at an all-girl college to working in the prison system, I find strong connections with people from all walks of life. From a compatible connection can grow a good relationship; and this is what I base treatment upon. Adept at treating all standard psychiatric disorders as well as focusing in addressing the trauma related, substance, food, Relationship/Interpersonal, gender, sexual , and cultural problems that often accompany them.
I've worked at length with a wide variety of people. From counseling at an all-girl college to working in the prison system, I find strong connections with people from all walks of life. From a compatible connection can grow a good relationship; and this is what I base treatment upon. Adept at treating all standard psychiatric disorders as well as focusing in addressing the trauma related, substance, food, Relationship/Interpersonal, gender, sexual , and cultural problems that often accompany them.
![Photo of Elhav Weinstein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da1a135-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elhav Weinstein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Elhav Weinstein completed his undergraduate work with honors at Johns Hopkins University and received his medical degree from Columbia University. He completed his internship at University of California, San Francisco and the remainder of his psychiatry training at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Weinstein remained at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital where he worked as an attending psychiatrist in the outpatient department, caring for adults of all ages and with a wide range of psychiatric and psychological concerns.
Dr. Elhav Weinstein completed his undergraduate work with honors at Johns Hopkins University and received his medical degree from Columbia University. He completed his internship at University of California, San Francisco and the remainder of his psychiatry training at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Weinstein remained at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital where he worked as an attending psychiatrist in the outpatient department, caring for adults of all ages and with a wide range of psychiatric and psychological concerns.
![Photo of Ladan Shaikh, MD, MS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0607d6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ladan Shaikh
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychiatrist trained in the treatment of adults. I provide a comprehensive approach to treatment which includes therapy, life style modification and medication management. I am interested in a collaborative approach with patients with a focus on integrative and holistic care. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds and strive to foster a comfortable atmosphere for my patients.
I am a psychiatrist trained in the treatment of adults. I provide a comprehensive approach to treatment which includes therapy, life style modification and medication management. I am interested in a collaborative approach with patients with a focus on integrative and holistic care. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds and strive to foster a comfortable atmosphere for my patients.
![Photo of Matthew Zimmerman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8ec5df-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both medication management and psychotherapy. I have been involved with medical student and resident education in these areas as a faculty member at Weill Cornell Medical College, Columbia University Medical Center, and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
I am a psychiatrist with expertise in both medication management and psychotherapy. I have been involved with medical student and resident education in these areas as a faculty member at Weill Cornell Medical College, Columbia University Medical Center, and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
![Photo of Maya E Kunofsky - Maya E Kunofsky NP Psychiatry PC, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2016c7f-cfe2-4362-b8ae-8db94bede173/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maya E Kunofsky NP Psychiatry PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
I am a Nurse Practitioner in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. Using evidence-based practices in psychopharmacology and psychiatry, I evaluate and treat a wide range of emotional disorders and mental illness.
I am a Nurse Practitioner in Adult Psychiatry and Mental Health. Using evidence-based practices in psychopharmacology and psychiatry, I evaluate and treat a wide range of emotional disorders and mental illness.
![Photo of Meredith Naidorf, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d49187a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to working collaboratively with my patients to address emotional distress and difficulties in daily living. This could manifest as depression, anxiety, problems with intimacy or self-esteem, trouble staying focused or feeling connected, feeling excessively angry or guilty, or trouble finding meaning in life, to name only a few. I listen deeply, to understand not only who my patients are right now and what has brought them in, but also what has happened to them in the past and how that has affected the present.
I am committed to working collaboratively with my patients to address emotional distress and difficulties in daily living. This could manifest as depression, anxiety, problems with intimacy or self-esteem, trouble staying focused or feeling connected, feeling excessively angry or guilty, or trouble finding meaning in life, to name only a few. I listen deeply, to understand not only who my patients are right now and what has brought them in, but also what has happened to them in the past and how that has affected the present.
See more therapy options for 11211
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 11211
50+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in 11211 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
84% | Medication Management |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Sleep or Insomnia |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 11211 see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
38% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 11211?
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.