Psychiatrists in Queens County, NY
![Photo of Lily Tung, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78db534c-a8d9-4d8e-920a-4fccd073e16b/6/320x400.jpeg)
Easy online booking, weekend/evening hours available! 我會說中文! Known for her compassion and attentive listening, Lily is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of nursing experience. She is in-network with Aetna and Cigna, accepting patients from New York and New Jersey. Specializing in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disorders, Lily offers comprehensive care for patients aged 15 and above. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, she is dedicated to holistic, patient-centered care, addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by people of color with empathy and understanding.
Easy online booking, weekend/evening hours available! 我會說中文! Known for her compassion and attentive listening, Lily is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of nursing experience. She is in-network with Aetna and Cigna, accepting patients from New York and New Jersey. Specializing in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disorders, Lily offers comprehensive care for patients aged 15 and above. Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese, she is dedicated to holistic, patient-centered care, addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by people of color with empathy and understanding.
![Photo of Gundu Anupama Reddy - Online Psychiatrist in Queens, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4934ab8-c040-49c3-bfff-27b2292703ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Online Psychiatrist in Queens
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11354 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/068377e1-1aec-4ad2-ae09-54902555bd2a/1/320x400.png)
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
![Photo of Natalie Li, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/995a9602-cd35-45f3-91ff-8b451d3bce78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Li
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in psychopharmacology and medication management. My background as a first-generation immigrant contributes to a deep appreciation of the healing modalities in Eastern and Western cultures. I am familiar with integrative psychiatric treatments and mindfulness, and I am focused on establishing a trusting relationship. Psychedelic research makes me excited and feels hopeful that instead of merely managing the symptoms, the future of psychiatry can strive for addressing the root causes of human suffering.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience in psychopharmacology and medication management. My background as a first-generation immigrant contributes to a deep appreciation of the healing modalities in Eastern and Western cultures. I am familiar with integrative psychiatric treatments and mindfulness, and I am focused on establishing a trusting relationship. Psychedelic research makes me excited and feels hopeful that instead of merely managing the symptoms, the future of psychiatry can strive for addressing the root causes of human suffering.
![Photo of Keith Jenkins, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f47c14fd-ab84-475f-9e67-7cf7eff558ad/1/320x400.png)
My name is Keith, and I am a doctorly prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner with a diverse clinical background. I see clients statewide in New York who struggle with a diverse range of mental disorders. I primarily focus on the adult population with a special interest in mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD utilizing a patient-centric approach to helping these individuals thrive in their daily lives and to function to their maximum potential.
My name is Keith, and I am a doctorly prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner with a diverse clinical background. I see clients statewide in New York who struggle with a diverse range of mental disorders. I primarily focus on the adult population with a special interest in mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD utilizing a patient-centric approach to helping these individuals thrive in their daily lives and to function to their maximum potential.
![Photo of Estelle Webester - Empire Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/422480e5-1456-4534-8152-536632646654/2/320x400.png)
Empire Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375 (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.
![Photo of Richard Groll, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a8c4f4d-dd75-43ca-954d-06c71d642c88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Richard Groll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101
Richard Groll is an ANCC boardcertified psychiatricmental health nurse practitioner. He completed his MSN in psychiatricmental health nursing at Hunter College. He utilizes his uptodate training and knowledge of treating mental illness in the adult population. During your session Richard will ensure that he is active listening, communicating effectively, and providing you with a patient centered approach to treatment. Richard validates each individual’s experience and has proven to be respectful, punctual, and motivated when assisting individuals in their recovery and restoration of their mental wellbeing.
Richard Groll is an ANCC boardcertified psychiatricmental health nurse practitioner. He completed his MSN in psychiatricmental health nursing at Hunter College. He utilizes his uptodate training and knowledge of treating mental illness in the adult population. During your session Richard will ensure that he is active listening, communicating effectively, and providing you with a patient centered approach to treatment. Richard validates each individual’s experience and has proven to be respectful, punctual, and motivated when assisting individuals in their recovery and restoration of their mental wellbeing.
![Photo of Dr. Sarah Becker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e398aae-bf3e-4f7e-b165-b4633ce52852/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist servicing children, adolescents, and adults with a special interest in women's health. I completed my medical training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine where I was selected to join the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society. I completed my training in adult psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx and completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Zucker Hillside Hospital at Northwell Health in Long Island where I also served as chief fellow.
I am a double board-certified psychiatrist servicing children, adolescents, and adults with a special interest in women's health. I completed my medical training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine where I was selected to join the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society. I completed my training in adult psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx and completed my child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Zucker Hillside Hospital at Northwell Health in Long Island where I also served as chief fellow.
![Photo of Vivette Fletcher-Harriott - PMHNP, INC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a89238-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed, board certified advance family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individuals, 6 years and older. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
I am a licensed, board certified advance family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide medication management for individuals, 6 years and older. My areas of expertise include depressive disorders, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder/Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Bipolar Disorder, and PTSD.
![Photo of Wilmot Lambert, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c1a5f8f-031a-4463-b9c0-da17e1829602/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wilmot Lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11378 (Online Only)
I believe that health -care should be individualized and cater to the specific needs of each person. I have experience in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcohol dependence, ADHD and eating disorders like binge eating and bulimia. In addition to my knowledge and expertise in treating psychiatric conditions, I have extensive training in primary care and chronic disease management including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease and degenerative joint disease management.
I believe that health -care should be individualized and cater to the specific needs of each person. I have experience in treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcohol dependence, ADHD and eating disorders like binge eating and bulimia. In addition to my knowledge and expertise in treating psychiatric conditions, I have extensive training in primary care and chronic disease management including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease and degenerative joint disease management.
![Photo of Lisa Marie Persad, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b20238-64f5-459e-a0ed-e049a7957419/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Marie Persad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Far Rockaway, NY 11691 (Online Only)
Lisa embraces a humanistic and holistic approach to care with a commitment to individualization and collaboration. She believes many episodes of depression and anxiety are rooted in underlying emotional wounds related to sexual, physical, and/or emotional trauma, including direct and indirect abuse or neglect. Lisa is committed to evidence-based medication management. She emphasizes the complementary role of psycho-pharmacological treatment in establishing and maintaining functionality while "doing the work in therapy".
Lisa embraces a humanistic and holistic approach to care with a commitment to individualization and collaboration. She believes many episodes of depression and anxiety are rooted in underlying emotional wounds related to sexual, physical, and/or emotional trauma, including direct and indirect abuse or neglect. Lisa is committed to evidence-based medication management. She emphasizes the complementary role of psycho-pharmacological treatment in establishing and maintaining functionality while "doing the work in therapy".
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TelepsychHealth
![Photo of Monowara Begum, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d25682c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my private practice. Do not suffer in silence, there is hope and help. I have extensive experience of over forty years treating anxiety, depression, panic disorder, O.C.D., mood disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, among others. I provide comprehensive mental health evaluation, diagnosis,and treatment for the adult, geriatric, and adolescent population. I have special expertise in psychopharmacology and the treatment of individuals who did not respond to various treatments in the past. I believe in compassionate care, I do not give up until my patients feel they have reached their maximum level of wellbeing.
Welcome to my private practice. Do not suffer in silence, there is hope and help. I have extensive experience of over forty years treating anxiety, depression, panic disorder, O.C.D., mood disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, among others. I provide comprehensive mental health evaluation, diagnosis,and treatment for the adult, geriatric, and adolescent population. I have special expertise in psychopharmacology and the treatment of individuals who did not respond to various treatments in the past. I believe in compassionate care, I do not give up until my patients feel they have reached their maximum level of wellbeing.
![Photo of Jeffrey Goltz, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6508c29-036b-4316-8afb-cab273e56e0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Goltz is a double board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist working at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens, NY and specializes in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. He is the unit chief of the inpatient adolescent psychiatric unit there, giving him extensive experience managing youth with a broad range of mental illnesses requiring intensive treatment and expertise in treating youth and families in crisis.
Dr. Goltz is a double board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist working at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens, NY and specializes in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. He is the unit chief of the inpatient adolescent psychiatric unit there, giving him extensive experience managing youth with a broad range of mental illnesses requiring intensive treatment and expertise in treating youth and families in crisis.
![Photo of Nikesha Abdool, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad759cd4-f3b6-4c10-a0a4-490a561b82a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nikesha Abdool
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101
Providing individual psychotherapy and medication management utilizing an eclectic therapy modality to meet the individual needs. Utilizing an holistic approach to treat mental health issues utilizing various modalities such as behavioral interventions, natural supplements, as well as pharmacological interventions.
Providing individual psychotherapy and medication management utilizing an eclectic therapy modality to meet the individual needs. Utilizing an holistic approach to treat mental health issues utilizing various modalities such as behavioral interventions, natural supplements, as well as pharmacological interventions.
![Photo of Angela Douglas-Staley - Staley Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner PLLC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49c5d043-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Staley Psychiatric Nurse Nurse Practitioner PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Albans, NY 11412
I have been working as an NPP for more than 10 years and with the mental health population for more than 15 years. I have an excellent relationship with my clients and colleagues and is described as a good listener, someone they can trust and feel comfortable with. I genuinely love what I do and my goal is help my clients attain mental and emotional stability to reach their full potential. It is my belief that through partnership and a collaborative approach you will be able to do that. We will explore evidence based treatment options to meet your needs. If you are interested in being your best, make the first step. Call today!
I have been working as an NPP for more than 10 years and with the mental health population for more than 15 years. I have an excellent relationship with my clients and colleagues and is described as a good listener, someone they can trust and feel comfortable with. I genuinely love what I do and my goal is help my clients attain mental and emotional stability to reach their full potential. It is my belief that through partnership and a collaborative approach you will be able to do that. We will explore evidence based treatment options to meet your needs. If you are interested in being your best, make the first step. Call today!
![Photo of Yu Yang, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40832a9f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified general psychiatrist from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I completed my psychiatric residency training at the prestigious Icahn School Medicine at Mount Sinai and psychoanalytic fellowship at New York University School of Medicine. I'm presently serving as an attending psychiatrist in the state hospital psychiatric center. I have extensive and rich psychiatric experiences from practicing in the private clinic, to hospital inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room settings. I also conducted medical research regarding immunology psychiatry with over 40 medical publications on PubMed.
I am a board-certified general psychiatrist from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I completed my psychiatric residency training at the prestigious Icahn School Medicine at Mount Sinai and psychoanalytic fellowship at New York University School of Medicine. I'm presently serving as an attending psychiatrist in the state hospital psychiatric center. I have extensive and rich psychiatric experiences from practicing in the private clinic, to hospital inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room settings. I also conducted medical research regarding immunology psychiatry with over 40 medical publications on PubMed.
![Photo of Wilmot lambert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f3984f8-622f-4fa7-9655-0d464972f8df/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
![Photo of Celine Corona, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e683a56-830e-408b-8914-823c2f6ebec1/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Celine Corona is a licensed psychiatrist who specializes in treating children, teens and adults. She integrates techniques from the psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories into her practice of both psychotherapy and medication management. She believes a broad approach which considers the entirety of a person's life is the best strategy to achieve wellness. During this process, she aims to provide a warm, calming and healing space for those who struggle with internal conflict. Dr. Corona completed her general psychiatry training at Saint Elizabeths Hospital-Department of Behavioral Health in Washington, D. C in 2022.
Dr. Celine Corona is a licensed psychiatrist who specializes in treating children, teens and adults. She integrates techniques from the psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories into her practice of both psychotherapy and medication management. She believes a broad approach which considers the entirety of a person's life is the best strategy to achieve wellness. During this process, she aims to provide a warm, calming and healing space for those who struggle with internal conflict. Dr. Corona completed her general psychiatry training at Saint Elizabeths Hospital-Department of Behavioral Health in Washington, D. C in 2022.
![Photo of Vivek Jayadeva - Metta Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49980a09-0acf-48b4-867f-81a042b9b11d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Metta Psychiatry’s purpose is to improve the lives of those facing behavioral health needs by providing more equitable access to psychiatry services via medication management.
Metta Psychiatry’s purpose is to improve the lives of those facing behavioral health needs by providing more equitable access to psychiatry services via medication management.
![Photo of Rashad Previllon, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59fa9a2d-76e3-46b6-933f-b27912524a95/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rashad Previllon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11101 (Online Only)
Rashad is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in providing mental health care to patients 18 and older. Her role involves assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, and ADHD. When providing to care to patients, Rashad uses pharmacological interventions, psychotherapy, and other evidence- based treatments to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. Rashad has a deep understanding of social and cultural factors that impact mental health.
Rashad is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in providing mental health care to patients 18 and older. Her role involves assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients with various mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, and ADHD. When providing to care to patients, Rashad uses pharmacological interventions, psychotherapy, and other evidence- based treatments to help patients manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. Rashad has a deep understanding of social and cultural factors that impact mental health.
See more therapy options for Queens County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Queens County, NY
200+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Queens County, NY who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
96% | Depression |
70% | Medication Management |
69% | ADHD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Bipolar Disorder |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | Aetna |
90% | Cigna and Evernorth |
81% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Queens County, NY see their clients
54% | Online Only | |
46% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Queens 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.