Psychiatrists in Floral Park, NY
![Photo of Parthy Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7387f74-acc7-4ad0-8b81-0ecee5cc26b8/1/320x400.png)
Today’s stressful demands require a holistic approach to health care. The National Wellness Model’s Six Dimensions of Wellness stress the importance of the interconnectedness of your emotional, physical, intellectual, occupational, social and spiritual health. This resonates in my philosophy as a psychiatrist.
Today’s stressful demands require a holistic approach to health care. The National Wellness Model’s Six Dimensions of Wellness stress the importance of the interconnectedness of your emotional, physical, intellectual, occupational, social and spiritual health. This resonates in my philosophy as a psychiatrist.
![Photo of Ekaete Lawal, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ac58a69-8aa9-43d8-8729-2abd15f119ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ekaete Lawal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Floral Park, NY 11001 (Online Only)
I am board -certified mental health nurse practitioner who simplifies mental health life experiences and also helps to address emotional challenges that could feel overwhelming at times by using pharmacotherapy approach. These challenges are addressed by connecting to my patients, helping them find purposes and guiding them towards balance. The goal is to make the patients life more peaceful and enjoyable.
I am board -certified mental health nurse practitioner who simplifies mental health life experiences and also helps to address emotional challenges that could feel overwhelming at times by using pharmacotherapy approach. These challenges are addressed by connecting to my patients, helping them find purposes and guiding them towards balance. The goal is to make the patients life more peaceful and enjoyable.
![Photo of Keri Karman - Empire Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf7afaf9-ccfb-4e2f-9fce-6f0aba9ae930/1/320x400.jpeg)
Empire Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Floral Park, NY 11001 (Online Only)
Psychiatric practice specializing in medication management for the treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia, OCD, Panic Disorder, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Insurances Accepted, and now offering Tele-psychiatry in the New York, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island areas.
Psychiatric practice specializing in medication management for the treatment of ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Insomnia, OCD, Panic Disorder, PTSD, and Schizophrenia. Insurances Accepted, and now offering Tele-psychiatry in the New York, Brooklyn, Queens, and Long Island areas.
People come into therapy for many reasons. You may be in despair, hurting, worried, scared, depressed, frustrated or confused. Maybe you are curious, and want to understand yourself more deeply. Perhaps life just isn't what you had hoped it would be. Although I do not prescribe medication, I may be able to help you with therapy.
People come into therapy for many reasons. You may be in despair, hurting, worried, scared, depressed, frustrated or confused. Maybe you are curious, and want to understand yourself more deeply. Perhaps life just isn't what you had hoped it would be. Although I do not prescribe medication, I may be able to help you with therapy.
![Photo of Gina Lee, PNP-BC, ANP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3161ecf-b229-4995-8c68-4c2264e6ed67/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Health Care in New York State, and now presiding at SilverLife NP Care. I have been trained and specialized in QEEG, Neurofeedback, Medication Management, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulate Therapy. Having believed that brain health is connected to state of total physical, mental, and social well-being, I will develop and customize a unique treatment plan for each individual recovery/remission, and provide the best quality care to all my clients.
I am a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Health Care in New York State, and now presiding at SilverLife NP Care. I have been trained and specialized in QEEG, Neurofeedback, Medication Management, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulate Therapy. Having believed that brain health is connected to state of total physical, mental, and social well-being, I will develop and customize a unique treatment plan for each individual recovery/remission, and provide the best quality care to all my clients.
![Photo of Stacy Crilly, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94b8c0fa-48c7-42f4-8e14-d1f3db958abc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Crilly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Floral Park, NY 11001
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), who is Board Certified to treat the age span (Child, adolescents, adult) in all aspects of mental health care. I have over 20 years experience in Mental Health in all settings (inpatient/outpatient). My focus is psychopharmacological treatment (medication management). My role was founded on the nursing process and therapeutic relationship and include: educating patients and families; diagnosing, treating, and managing acute illness; providing psychotherapy; prescribing medication for acute and chronic illness; diagnosing, treating, and managing acute illnesses.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), who is Board Certified to treat the age span (Child, adolescents, adult) in all aspects of mental health care. I have over 20 years experience in Mental Health in all settings (inpatient/outpatient). My focus is psychopharmacological treatment (medication management). My role was founded on the nursing process and therapeutic relationship and include: educating patients and families; diagnosing, treating, and managing acute illness; providing psychotherapy; prescribing medication for acute and chronic illness; diagnosing, treating, and managing acute illnesses.
![Photo of Farina Sial - Stay Ageless Health Clinic, RPA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7777899b-0f33-4cc4-9146-71a18c7ae789/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stay Ageless Health Clinic
Physician Assistant, RPA-C
Verified Verified
Floral Park, NY 11001 (Online Only)
Farina Sial is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Neuroscience. Farina completed her undergraduate studies in Biochemistry from University of Missouri, Columbia, MO. She then earned her degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro College, NY. Furthermore, she enhanced her education by completing her MBA in Health Management from Hofstra University in Uniondale, NY. She is has a very keen interest & many years of medical experience in treating Neuro-Psych conditions which can affect day to day life, such as ADHD and Anxiety & Depression.
Farina Sial is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Neuroscience. Farina completed her undergraduate studies in Biochemistry from University of Missouri, Columbia, MO. She then earned her degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Touro College, NY. Furthermore, she enhanced her education by completing her MBA in Health Management from Hofstra University in Uniondale, NY. She is has a very keen interest & many years of medical experience in treating Neuro-Psych conditions which can affect day to day life, such as ADHD and Anxiety & Depression.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Matthew ` Ottinger - Water Gap Wellness Center, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f52a734-533f-4d86-9e18-6107948515ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Water Gap Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Please note that individual sessions are not offered at this location. Water Gap Wellness offers an intensive mental health and substance use treatment that requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Housing is available upon request. Included are weekly sessions with me or one of our other providers, two sessions with your primary therapist per week, and ongoing daily group sessions. Call us today - we are here for you.
Please note that individual sessions are not offered at this location. Water Gap Wellness offers an intensive mental health and substance use treatment that requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Housing is available upon request. Included are weekly sessions with me or one of our other providers, two sessions with your primary therapist per week, and ongoing daily group sessions. Call us today - we are here for you.
![Photo of Ardouin Coriolan, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fe232c2-9029-4180-8669-0d87e42b847b/1/320x400.png)
Ardouin Coriolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Glen Oaks, NY 11004 (Online Only)
As a dedicated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in New York, I render hope for individuals battling mental illness and substance abuse. With a profound commitment to healing, I offer teletherapy services, leveraging technology to reach those in need regardless of location. Armed with a wealth of expertise and compassion, I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. Some common issues potential clients seeking treatment from me usually consist of : substance abuse, depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, and low motivation.
As a dedicated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner licensed in New York, I render hope for individuals battling mental illness and substance abuse. With a profound commitment to healing, I offer teletherapy services, leveraging technology to reach those in need regardless of location. Armed with a wealth of expertise and compassion, I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and circumstances. Some common issues potential clients seeking treatment from me usually consist of : substance abuse, depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, and low motivation.
![Photo of Macia Drummond - Bridge Back to Health, PhD, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45a5363b-03cd-446c-b399-a37910ff6630/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bridge Back to Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Elmont, NY 11003
Dr. Macia Drummond, PhD, PMHNP-BC, empowers individuals, both adults and children, not just to overcome challenge, but to thrive. I envision a future where they can maintain healthy relationships, find fulfillment in their careers, and actively participate in their families and communities. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, but my practice offers a safe and supportive environment. Here, patients are not judged, but seen, heard, and valued for their potential. As a Mental Health Provider, I believe that reaching out for help isn't a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength –a first step on the path to a brighter future.
Dr. Macia Drummond, PhD, PMHNP-BC, empowers individuals, both adults and children, not just to overcome challenge, but to thrive. I envision a future where they can maintain healthy relationships, find fulfillment in their careers, and actively participate in their families and communities. I understand that seeking help can be daunting, but my practice offers a safe and supportive environment. Here, patients are not judged, but seen, heard, and valued for their potential. As a Mental Health Provider, I believe that reaching out for help isn't a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength –a first step on the path to a brighter future.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b134878-376b-4da9-98c7-526b1fbed9b8/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Garden City Park, NY 11040
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa85a3f4-40f5-4c0c-8ce7-7c0eaba56e27/1/320x400.png)
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Garden City Park, NY 11040
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7662fbe-d075-4f72-b1c6-d073001dd151/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Garden City Park, NY 11040
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Aafaque Akhter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ad25bdb-d70e-4058-9b49-e874d1fd6f39/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Harvard-trained, board-certified Psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience serving New Hyde Park, NY, and New York City, I specialize in helping individuals overcome personal, psychological, and family challenges. I work with those struggling with conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, or Anxiety, providing a compassionate and holistic approach to treatment. By combining psychotherapy and medication management, I address each individual's unique needs, focusing on key aspects like sleep, nutrition, and overall well-being.
As a Harvard-trained, board-certified Psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience serving New Hyde Park, NY, and New York City, I specialize in helping individuals overcome personal, psychological, and family challenges. I work with those struggling with conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, Major Depression, or Anxiety, providing a compassionate and holistic approach to treatment. By combining psychotherapy and medication management, I address each individual's unique needs, focusing on key aspects like sleep, nutrition, and overall well-being.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc1769be-476f-4771-a7f3-fff802b60940/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Garden City Park, NY 11040 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
NOVA Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jamaica, NY 11428
Ready to transform your life but unsure where to start? At Nova Wellness Psychiatry, we can help you grow into a better version of yourself. Whether you're dealing with depression, ADHD, anxiety, or need a refill on psychiatric medications, we're here for you. Struggling to quit substance use? We offer the support you need. We also provide non-medicated approaches, from coloring books and journaling to vitamin supplements. Find our mental health products at Mental Health Trendz. Our holistic partnership approach ensures your care plan is tailored to you. Choose Nova Wellness Psychiatry and grow into the new you!
Ready to transform your life but unsure where to start? At Nova Wellness Psychiatry, we can help you grow into a better version of yourself. Whether you're dealing with depression, ADHD, anxiety, or need a refill on psychiatric medications, we're here for you. Struggling to quit substance use? We offer the support you need. We also provide non-medicated approaches, from coloring books and journaling to vitamin supplements. Find our mental health products at Mental Health Trendz. Our holistic partnership approach ensures your care plan is tailored to you. Choose Nova Wellness Psychiatry and grow into the new you!
![Photo of Courtney Chellew - Water Gap Wellness Center, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8d753f9-33c0-4cab-88ea-ec428177e53d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please note that individual appointments are not available at this location. Please do not contact us unless you are interested in joining our comprehensive treatment program. Water Gap Wellness offers the most intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. Our premier program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Housing is available upon request. Included are weekly sessions with me or one of our other psychiatrists, two sessions with your primary therapist per week, and ongoing daily group sessions. Call us today - we are here for you.
Please note that individual appointments are not available at this location. Please do not contact us unless you are interested in joining our comprehensive treatment program. Water Gap Wellness offers the most intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. Our premier program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Housing is available upon request. Included are weekly sessions with me or one of our other psychiatrists, two sessions with your primary therapist per week, and ongoing daily group sessions. Call us today - we are here for you.
![Photo of Aziz Ahmed Soomro, MBBS, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96abbd5f-4347-4ba1-b240-5a80981b1a1b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Soomro is a trained Child Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Dr. Soomro completed his Adult Psychiatry training at New York University Medical School North Shore University Hospital Manhasset. Dr. Soomro subsequently completed his Child and Adolescents Psychiatry training at Dartmouth. Dr. Soomro has been affiliated with Brookdale Hospital, Westchester Medical Center, Northwell Health, Saint Joseph Medical Center, and NYCC Health and Hospital Corporation . Dr. Soomro has been involved in teaching and supervision of resident and fellows in training. Dr. Soomro has extensive experience in treating children, Adolescent and Adults.
Dr. Soomro is a trained Child Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist. Dr. Soomro completed his Adult Psychiatry training at New York University Medical School North Shore University Hospital Manhasset. Dr. Soomro subsequently completed his Child and Adolescents Psychiatry training at Dartmouth. Dr. Soomro has been affiliated with Brookdale Hospital, Westchester Medical Center, Northwell Health, Saint Joseph Medical Center, and NYCC Health and Hospital Corporation . Dr. Soomro has been involved in teaching and supervision of resident and fellows in training. Dr. Soomro has extensive experience in treating children, Adolescent and Adults.
![Photo of Lena Najjarian, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5290a6d7-5e0a-4386-a3bb-86f8e73d49e6/2/320x400.png)
Lena is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
Lena is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
![Photo of Dr. Joette Hoffman - Water Gap Wellness Center, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76b5752c-28ab-4498-8a3c-cc9fdd1c5e3d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Water Gap Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elmont, NY 11003
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
See more therapy options for Floral Park
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Floral Park, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Floral Park, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
57% | ADHD |
57% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
57% | Trauma and PTSD |
57% | Sleep or Insomnia |
57% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
18 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Floral Park, NY see their clients
57% | Online Only | |
43% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Floral Park?
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.