Psychiatrists in Corona, NY
Lina M Zapata Samarel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Corona, NY 11368 (Online Only)
Areas of interest include medication management and psychiatric evaluations for the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. Lina’s approach to treating patients focuses on individual treatment plans and on integrative psychiatry by applying evidence-based psychopharmacological, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle modifications. Lina will listen to you with empathy and will partner with you on your wellness journey.
Areas of interest include medication management and psychiatric evaluations for the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. Lina’s approach to treating patients focuses on individual treatment plans and on integrative psychiatry by applying evidence-based psychopharmacological, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle modifications. Lina will listen to you with empathy and will partner with you on your wellness journey.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
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.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
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.
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.
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Corona, NY 11368
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.
Nicole Vesper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Corona, NY 11368 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts? Maybe you're dealing with depression, PTSD, or difficulty focusing due to ADHD, and you're searching for a path forward. You want to feel more balanced, more in control, and able to enjoy life again. I understand how challenging it can be to navigate these feelings alone, and I’m here to help you on your journey toward mental wellness.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts? Maybe you're dealing with depression, PTSD, or difficulty focusing due to ADHD, and you're searching for a path forward. You want to feel more balanced, more in control, and able to enjoy life again. I understand how challenging it can be to navigate these feelings alone, and I’m here to help you on your journey toward mental wellness.
DH Mental Health Continuum
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corona, NY 11368 (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. My name is Desiree Hopkinson and I started DH Mental Health Continuum because I am passionate about giving quality access to care and the time you deserve. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Ten years of experience in healthcare, including psychiatric mental health nursing working with clients across the lifespan with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline disorder, ADHD as well as anxiety, and depressive disorders.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. My name is Desiree Hopkinson and I started DH Mental Health Continuum because I am passionate about giving quality access to care and the time you deserve. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Ten years of experience in healthcare, including psychiatric mental health nursing working with clients across the lifespan with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline disorder, ADHD as well as anxiety, and depressive disorders.
Joseph Gagnon Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, BS, RN-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Corona, NY 11368
Joe Gagnon, owner of Psychiatric Edge, brings nearly 15 years of psychiatric experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, with expertise in ADHD, ASD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, and PANDAS. He integrates plant-based medicine, supplements, and genetic testing into his approach, offering clients alternative options. Joe presents nationally on complex psychiatric topics and holds certifications in addiction treatment (MAT) and clozapine prescribing. He also has extensive experience using LDN. Additionally, he has served as a clinical faculty instructor for 25 different universities.
Joe Gagnon, owner of Psychiatric Edge, brings nearly 15 years of psychiatric experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, with expertise in ADHD, ASD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, and PANDAS. He integrates plant-based medicine, supplements, and genetic testing into his approach, offering clients alternative options. Joe presents nationally on complex psychiatric topics and holds certifications in addiction treatment (MAT) and clozapine prescribing. He also has extensive experience using LDN. Additionally, he has served as a clinical faculty instructor for 25 different universities.
Nichola Ali
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Corona, NY 11368 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with ages 18 to 65 experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, sleep issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, gender issues, control disorders, mood disorders, and more. I use a combination of techniques to address your needs. These include motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, psychoanalytical theories, open-ended questions, and grounding techniques. My goal is to inspire you so you feel empowered to achieve a greater sense of well-being.
I work with ages 18 to 65 experiencing ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, sleep issues, stress, trauma, PTSD, gender issues, control disorders, mood disorders, and more. I use a combination of techniques to address your needs. These include motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, psychoanalytical theories, open-ended questions, and grounding techniques. My goal is to inspire you so you feel empowered to achieve a greater sense of well-being.
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Lina M Zapata Samarel
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Roxanne Singer-Gheorghiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corona, NY 11368 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are impacted by Alzheimer's disease, dementia, memory loss, anxiety, depression, long COVID syndrome, and other neurological disorders. Many of my clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, such as frustration, sadness, grief, anger, and loneliness, in relation to dementia.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I am passionate about providing empathetic, client-centered care for individuals whose lives are impacted by Alzheimer's disease, dementia, memory loss, anxiety, depression, long COVID syndrome, and other neurological disorders. Many of my clients seek help to manage emotions that feel uncontrollable, such as frustration, sadness, grief, anger, and loneliness, in relation to dementia.
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
We are a group practice (of psychiatrists and therapists). We have availability within 1-2 weeks. Our reviews are on our website. Feel free to call or message us to request an ASAP appointment. You might be a bit hesitant about receiving treatment over the internet if you haven’t done it before, and that’s totally understandable. If we can provide you any reassurance, most people end up finding they enjoy virtual visits more than going to an office.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Shanyq Salop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103 (Online Only)
I help women identified with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and especially postpartum struggles live a more complete life, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood and energy level. I use a combination of medication management and holistic approaches (treating you as a whole person- mind, and body) so that you can live the life you've always wanted. I approach each person with curiosity, empathy, and passion to help you live the life you deserve. Psychotherapy, nutraceuticals, and relaxation techniques are combined with medication management when necessary.
I help women identified with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and especially postpartum struggles live a more complete life, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood and energy level. I use a combination of medication management and holistic approaches (treating you as a whole person- mind, and body) so that you can live the life you've always wanted. I approach each person with curiosity, empathy, and passion to help you live the life you deserve. Psychotherapy, nutraceuticals, and relaxation techniques are combined with medication management when necessary.
Anita Z. Durnen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, APN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11368 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Anita. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the power of listening with acceptance and compassion, and most importantly, without judgement. I aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness. I integrate a personalized treatment plan that may include med management, therapy, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. I actively collaborate with other care providers, including therapists, specialists, and primary care doctors to ensure best treatment outcomes.
Hi! I'm Anita. I am a double board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the power of listening with acceptance and compassion, and most importantly, without judgement. I aim to empower my clients to navigate their emotions, overcome obstacles, and achieve optimal mental wellness. I integrate a personalized treatment plan that may include med management, therapy, nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness. I actively collaborate with other care providers, including therapists, specialists, and primary care doctors to ensure best treatment outcomes.
No matter what stage in life you are, problems and issues arise. These may take the form of conflict within ourselves, manifesting as depression or anxiety that interferes with our lives. Or perhaps it may take the form of interpersonal conflict that makes it difficult to connect with our friends and loved ones. These issues are only exacerbated if you are dealing with it alone. However, the reality is that you don't have to. If you are looking for a psychiatrist to help you through tough times, then you have found the right place.
No matter what stage in life you are, problems and issues arise. These may take the form of conflict within ourselves, manifesting as depression or anxiety that interferes with our lives. Or perhaps it may take the form of interpersonal conflict that makes it difficult to connect with our friends and loved ones. These issues are only exacerbated if you are dealing with it alone. However, the reality is that you don't have to. If you are looking for a psychiatrist to help you through tough times, then you have found the right place.
Jessica Kirby-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11103
My approach to mental health care is to tailor treatment for the specific needs of each individual. I recognize that everyone has their own unique stories and struggles. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable to express themselves in a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment.
My approach to mental health care is to tailor treatment for the specific needs of each individual. I recognize that everyone has their own unique stories and struggles. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable to express themselves in a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment.
Shelley Padgett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103 (Online Only)
Shelley Padgett is a warm and compassionate psychiatric provider. Her approach to treatment follows a wholistic model that combines talk therapy and medication as needed. She enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level. She creates a space that is safe and free of judgement. Shelley is down to earth and through empathy, she forms meaningful connections with her patients. Shelly has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is highly skilled in psychopharmacology. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD.
Shelley Padgett is a warm and compassionate psychiatric provider. Her approach to treatment follows a wholistic model that combines talk therapy and medication as needed. She enjoys getting to know her patients on a personal level. She creates a space that is safe and free of judgement. Shelley is down to earth and through empathy, she forms meaningful connections with her patients. Shelly has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is highly skilled in psychopharmacology. She specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, sleep disorders, and ADHD.
Kayla Luther is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field in a variety of psychiatric settings, including group homes, community clinics, inpatient hospitals, correctional facilities, and private practices. Kayla completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Rochester and went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing there as well. She has been a practicing psychiatric provider since 2018 and is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Kayla is experienced in treating adult patients throughout the lifespan.
Kayla Luther is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field in a variety of psychiatric settings, including group homes, community clinics, inpatient hospitals, correctional facilities, and private practices. Kayla completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Rochester and went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing there as well. She has been a practicing psychiatric provider since 2018 and is an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Kayla is experienced in treating adult patients throughout the lifespan.
My therapeutic approach is to combine best clinical psychotherapy and psychopharmacology practices informed by contemporary neuroscience. Rather than focusing on diagnosis and disease, I am oriented toward maximizing health and wellness. I try to help a person full his or her potential in work and relationships, while achieving realistic goals and higher aims. If you'd like to set up a consultation, please call me directly at 212 737 5099.
My therapeutic approach is to combine best clinical psychotherapy and psychopharmacology practices informed by contemporary neuroscience. Rather than focusing on diagnosis and disease, I am oriented toward maximizing health and wellness. I try to help a person full his or her potential in work and relationships, while achieving realistic goals and higher aims. If you'd like to set up a consultation, please call me directly at 212 737 5099.
See more therapy options for Corona
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Corona, NY
10+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in Corona, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
62% | ADHD |
62% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Corona, NY see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
14% | Male | |
14% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Corona?
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.