Psychiatrists in Nassau County, NY
![Photo of Dr. Tina Wu, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b85362a-a4d9-4ba3-ae0a-4dc6ac5defc7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD through medication management and psychotherapy. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Internal Family System (IFS), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD through medication management and psychotherapy. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Internal Family System (IFS), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) & EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
![Photo of Aswathy Krishnakumar, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fcf042f-6332-4328-a73e-ae69f8cdfd20/2/320x400.png)
Aswathy is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
Aswathy is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York.
![Photo of Larissa Yossefi, PMHNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59131512-7b5f-4f7f-b658-ca60048c767e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Larissa Yossefi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Albertson, NY 11507
Looking for effective trauma therapy that respects your unique journey? I specialize in a holistic approach that combines CBT, EMDR, and the polyvagal systemic method to help you leverage your strengths and navigate life transitions such as pregnancy, childbirth, and school changes. My therapy is built on a foundation of respect, trust, and self-reflection, helping you understand your past and develop the skills needed to move forward with confidence.
Looking for effective trauma therapy that respects your unique journey? I specialize in a holistic approach that combines CBT, EMDR, and the polyvagal systemic method to help you leverage your strengths and navigate life transitions such as pregnancy, childbirth, and school changes. My therapy is built on a foundation of respect, trust, and self-reflection, helping you understand your past and develop the skills needed to move forward with confidence.
![Photo of Danielle Damas - Danielle Damas NP in Psychiatry P.C., MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85afd840-20f6-4530-a0ca-a4914801a65c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Damas NP in Psychiatry P.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581 (Online Only)
As a holistic mental health practice, Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC focuses on helping people of all ages overcome their challenges and move forward into a thriving, satisfying life. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Danielle Damas, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BC-NP, is based in Valley Stream, New York, and offers her psychiatric services through telemedicine and in person visits.
As a holistic mental health practice, Danielle Damas, Psychiatric NP, PC focuses on helping people of all ages overcome their challenges and move forward into a thriving, satisfying life. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Danielle Damas, PMHNP-BC, MSN, BC-NP, is based in Valley Stream, New York, and offers her psychiatric services through telemedicine and in person visits.
![Photo of Dr. Jessy Kurian - Long Island Wellness NP in Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/667a8e7b-8069-4e82-ba57-ab7934c8dcfa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Long Island Wellness NP in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience. I have treated patients with various diagnoses which include Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar disorder, Major depressive disorder, Substance use disorders, Anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Experience includes treating postpartum psychosis, depression, and mood/ anxiety disorders during the perinatal period. I have experience working with the geriatric population.
I am a board-certified Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 12 years of experience. I have treated patients with various diagnoses which include Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar disorder, Major depressive disorder, Substance use disorders, Anxiety disorders, OCD, and PTSD. Experience includes treating postpartum psychosis, depression, and mood/ anxiety disorders during the perinatal period. I have experience working with the geriatric population.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Long Island Psychiatrist & Online Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07f38d44-6a6c-472e-b1d2-3bda67dbd60d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Long Island Psychiatrist & Online Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11042 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare) . I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist ? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems dysphoria, or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
I am a board certified Psychiatrist practicing in Long Island, NY. I provide both office visits and telepsychiatry visits ( please visit my website at gaba.healthcare) . I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, family and marital therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as medication management. Whatever your reasons for seeing a psychiatrist ? whether you are suffering from schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention problems dysphoria, or just wanting to perform better at work, I strongly believe that everyone has the potential to feel and be better, and everyone deserves optimal care.
![Photo of Ronald B Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41c9bdaf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you Stressed, Anxious, Chronically Sad, Lonely, Depressed? Who isn’t nowadays you might ask? And yet, maybe, just maybe, it doesn’t have to be this way. Maybe focusing on what is right with us rather than what is wrong with us will open up a whole new way of envisioning emotional health and well-being. Each of us has the ability to be more loving, thoughtful, and considerate. As a Mindfulness-Based Board Certified Psychiatrist I have developed the practices of Mindful Relationships, an integrative way to help individuals, couples and families resolve relationship difficulties and live happier, healthier, more fulfilling live.
Are you Stressed, Anxious, Chronically Sad, Lonely, Depressed? Who isn’t nowadays you might ask? And yet, maybe, just maybe, it doesn’t have to be this way. Maybe focusing on what is right with us rather than what is wrong with us will open up a whole new way of envisioning emotional health and well-being. Each of us has the ability to be more loving, thoughtful, and considerate. As a Mindfulness-Based Board Certified Psychiatrist I have developed the practices of Mindful Relationships, an integrative way to help individuals, couples and families resolve relationship difficulties and live happier, healthier, more fulfilling live.
![Photo of Efraim J. Keisari - Efraim J. Keisari, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d35f2e-3a56-4314-9f33-fdb286afa99b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Asking for help can be hard. Finding the right psychiatrist for you can be hard. As a board certified psychiatrist with a small patient-centered practice, I strive to create a personalized and thoughtful experience for you. I treat adults of all ages with a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various phobias. We can address issues such as sleeping difficulties (insomnia), relationship challenges, work stress, and life stage transitions.
Asking for help can be hard. Finding the right psychiatrist for you can be hard. As a board certified psychiatrist with a small patient-centered practice, I strive to create a personalized and thoughtful experience for you. I treat adults of all ages with a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and various phobias. We can address issues such as sleeping difficulties (insomnia), relationship challenges, work stress, and life stage transitions.
Patricia Janson, NP, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
Patricia Janson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Therapy. She has many years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples and families with expertise in treating a broad range of emotional and behavioral problems.
Patricia Janson is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Therapy. She has many years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples and families with expertise in treating a broad range of emotional and behavioral problems.
![Photo of Jazz Singh - Jazz psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82256f74-1813-49d9-97d5-ab58c7a00f8d/2/320x400.jpeg)
As an integrative holistic psychiatrist, I specialize in helping individuals seeking relief from mental health challenges. I'm passionate about working with clients and am open to exploring a comprehensive approach to their well-being. Beyond traditional diagnostic evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy, I incorporate holistic therapies like nutrition, exercise, yoga, and meditation into our treatment plan. My mission is to guide clients in improving their mental health and overall well-being. I have a longstanding interest in spirituality, and when appropriate, I teach breathing and meditation.
As an integrative holistic psychiatrist, I specialize in helping individuals seeking relief from mental health challenges. I'm passionate about working with clients and am open to exploring a comprehensive approach to their well-being. Beyond traditional diagnostic evaluations, medication, and psychotherapy, I incorporate holistic therapies like nutrition, exercise, yoga, and meditation into our treatment plan. My mission is to guide clients in improving their mental health and overall well-being. I have a longstanding interest in spirituality, and when appropriate, I teach breathing and meditation.
![Photo of Judith Elie-Eveillard - Eliepsych, PMC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59879c9c-19f7-467d-b6e4-6670e762a5ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing mental health and wellness to adults from diverse backgrounds. I provide medication management for patients with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, and mood disorders. I utilize a holistic, centered approach to help manage patients struggling with various mental health illnesses. Moreover, my goal is to help you improve your self-esteem, mental stability, and ability to function daily.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner committed to providing mental health and wellness to adults from diverse backgrounds. I provide medication management for patients with depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, and mood disorders. I utilize a holistic, centered approach to help manage patients struggling with various mental health illnesses. Moreover, my goal is to help you improve your self-esteem, mental stability, and ability to function daily.
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![Photo of Deepak Kumar, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/367fa83e-f903-46a4-8244-9283e72eb72d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deepak Kumar M.D., M.S. is an adult board-certified psychiatrist, licensed in CA, TX, NY, FL, PA, and MO. He has worked since 2010 in 9 states and in all kinds of settings from inpatient, IOP/PHP, and outpatient to state hospitals, correctional facilities and tele-psychiatry.
Deepak Kumar M.D., M.S. is an adult board-certified psychiatrist, licensed in CA, TX, NY, FL, PA, and MO. He has worked since 2010 in 9 states and in all kinds of settings from inpatient, IOP/PHP, and outpatient to state hospitals, correctional facilities and tele-psychiatry.
![Photo of Wendy Coster, MS, PMHNP, -BC, ANP, -C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/160ab8cd-e9cb-4464-8b38-f21a8f15ee26/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Coster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP, -BC, ANP, -C
Verified Verified
Bayville, NY 11709 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I’ve been practicing in medicine for two decades; first as an RN, and then as an Adult NP. I worked with clients through depression, anxiety, grief, sleep disorders, pain, and chronic and acute medical conditions, for end of life care, and interventional procedures. After seeing the difficulty my patients were having accessing more specialized mental health care, I decided to advance my degree and completed my Post Masters as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan at SUNY Stony Brook. I offer mental health care in NY & CT primarily via telehealth and meet with clients in person on an as needed basis.
Welcome! I’ve been practicing in medicine for two decades; first as an RN, and then as an Adult NP. I worked with clients through depression, anxiety, grief, sleep disorders, pain, and chronic and acute medical conditions, for end of life care, and interventional procedures. After seeing the difficulty my patients were having accessing more specialized mental health care, I decided to advance my degree and completed my Post Masters as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Across the Lifespan at SUNY Stony Brook. I offer mental health care in NY & CT primarily via telehealth and meet with clients in person on an as needed basis.
![Photo of Alexander Ivan Gumbs, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61fc9e72-9e3e-4b35-9465-829c7a991ed8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexander Ivan Gumbs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11791
Alexander Gumbs, FNP/PMHNP-BC is a dual board-certified practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine. Mr. Gumbs uses an integrative holistic approach to treat the bodies and minds of his patients. He is proficient in treating those across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and seniors). Community focus is his passion. He has experience treating disadvantaged populations, such as the homeless and those in the criminal justice system transitioning back to civilian life. Mr. Gumbs treats those with anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, autism, insomnia, dementia, and postpartum depression.
Alexander Gumbs, FNP/PMHNP-BC is a dual board-certified practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine. Mr. Gumbs uses an integrative holistic approach to treat the bodies and minds of his patients. He is proficient in treating those across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and seniors). Community focus is his passion. He has experience treating disadvantaged populations, such as the homeless and those in the criminal justice system transitioning back to civilian life. Mr. Gumbs treats those with anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, autism, insomnia, dementia, and postpartum depression.
![Photo of Victoria Fink, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4773d0bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you are struggling to find emotional balance, but want to live a healthier, happier life - I would gladly help you and welcome you to my office. My psychiatry practice is focused on treating mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and other related mental health conditions in late adolescence and adulthood. My other area of expertise is the management of mood disorders during and after pregnancy. I strive to ensure the most empathic, supporting and contemporary treatment in a safe and welcoming environment.
If you are struggling to find emotional balance, but want to live a healthier, happier life - I would gladly help you and welcome you to my office. My psychiatry practice is focused on treating mood and anxiety disorders, including depression, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and other related mental health conditions in late adolescence and adulthood. My other area of expertise is the management of mood disorders during and after pregnancy. I strive to ensure the most empathic, supporting and contemporary treatment in a safe and welcoming environment.
![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
Woodmere, NY 11598 (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.
![Photo of Sean Dellasperanzo - Equilibrio Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bffb06b4-fdeb-44bc-a73c-df4f8cae2599/1/320x400.jpeg)
Equilibrio Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mineola, NY 11501
We are a group of Nurse Practitioners specializing in Psychiatry. Areas of expertise include managing psychotropic medications targeting anxiety disorders including PTSD, GAD, and OCD, depressive disorders, and bipolar spectrum disorders.
We are a group of Nurse Practitioners specializing in Psychiatry. Areas of expertise include managing psychotropic medications targeting anxiety disorders including PTSD, GAD, and OCD, depressive disorders, and bipolar spectrum disorders.
Marie Mercure Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board-Certified Psych Nurse Practitioner with great experience in the field. I provide diagnostic assessments and medication management to patients across the lifespan using holistic approach. I have experience working with adult and children(14+) with a variety of mental health needs. I have a primary clinical interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD and Pre and/or Postpartum related mood disorders.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board-Certified Psych Nurse Practitioner with great experience in the field. I provide diagnostic assessments and medication management to patients across the lifespan using holistic approach. I have experience working with adult and children(14+) with a variety of mental health needs. I have a primary clinical interest in anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD and Pre and/or Postpartum related mood disorders.
![Photo of Valerie Thertus - Behavioral Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/020b5b7a-fbeb-4eb7-8f2a-66529a17a083/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Thertus completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, followed by residency and fellowship in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. She has broad experience treating a variety of psychiatric conditions, patients from diverse backgrounds and is double board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. She emphasizes shared decision making , encouraging personal input in goal setting and the recovery process.
Dr. Thertus completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, followed by residency and fellowship in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. She has broad experience treating a variety of psychiatric conditions, patients from diverse backgrounds and is double board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. She emphasizes shared decision making , encouraging personal input in goal setting and the recovery process.
![Photo of Denise Louise Simmons, PMHNP , MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39f55a89-368b-47e8-ac63-7c9b6c2a7a26/3/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Louise Simmons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , MSN
Verified Verified
Baldwin, NY 11510 (Online Only)
DENISE L.SIMMONS 2001 - Summa Cum Laude Graduate of Adelphi University-Masters of Science in Nursing. N.Y.S. Certification in the area of Psychiatric Mental Health; Nurse Practitioner. Previously completed 21 years of Medical experience as Psychiatric RN- Mt. Sinai Medical Center, serving in both adult and child adolescent units. I present with 22 years of clinical experience, having provided psychiatric treatment to populations of diverse cultures, sexual orientations and age groups,spanning from Childhood through Geriatric.
DENISE L.SIMMONS 2001 - Summa Cum Laude Graduate of Adelphi University-Masters of Science in Nursing. N.Y.S. Certification in the area of Psychiatric Mental Health; Nurse Practitioner. Previously completed 21 years of Medical experience as Psychiatric RN- Mt. Sinai Medical Center, serving in both adult and child adolescent units. I present with 22 years of clinical experience, having provided psychiatric treatment to populations of diverse cultures, sexual orientations and age groups,spanning from Childhood through Geriatric.
See more therapy options for Nassau County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Nassau County, NY
200+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Nassau County, NY who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
73% | Medication Management |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | ADHD |
60% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Aetna |
85% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Nassau County, NY see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
65% | Female | |
35% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Nassau County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
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.