Psychiatrists in 07002

Photo of Babbet Forgarthy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Babbet Forgarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Bayonne, NJ 07002
I’m Babbet Forgarthy, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals find balance, healing, and resilience. My ideal clients may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or the challenges of managing life transitions. They want to feel understood, regain stability, and improve their overall quality of life. My clients often feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions, ongoing stress, or mental health conditions that interfere with daily living. They may be searching for effective strategies, compassionate support, and a safe environment to share their struggles.
I’m Babbet Forgarthy, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals find balance, healing, and resilience. My ideal clients may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or the challenges of managing life transitions. They want to feel understood, regain stability, and improve their overall quality of life. My clients often feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions, ongoing stress, or mental health conditions that interfere with daily living. They may be searching for effective strategies, compassionate support, and a safe environment to share their struggles.
(609) 890-1050 View (609) 890-1050
Photo of Dr. Jude C. Emelumba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Dr. Jude C. Emelumba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Dr. Jude C. Emelumba is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He received his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Rutgers University. Dr. Emelumba has a vast clinical experience that covers both inpatient and outpatient adult psychiatric care settings, addiction treatment, clinical supervision, and advanced nursing students' preceptorship. He has the MAT training and is affiliated to Christ Hospital In Jersey City, New Jersey. His expertise is anchored on a treatment modality that combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy approaches to psychiatric care while advocating for patient wellness and health promotion.
Dr. Jude C. Emelumba is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. He received his Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Rutgers University. Dr. Emelumba has a vast clinical experience that covers both inpatient and outpatient adult psychiatric care settings, addiction treatment, clinical supervision, and advanced nursing students' preceptorship. He has the MAT training and is affiliated to Christ Hospital In Jersey City, New Jersey. His expertise is anchored on a treatment modality that combines psychopharmacology and psychotherapy approaches to psychiatric care while advocating for patient wellness and health promotion.
(201) 597-5695 View (201) 597-5695
Photo of Catherine N Okali, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Catherine N Okali
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Easy Behavioral Health Services focuses on the holistic care of patients. I am a doctorate prepared Board- Certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 10 years of experience providing quality care to patients of different ages. Following the initial comprehensive and diagnostic evaluation, we develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve the health goals, provide compassionate, medication management, and holistic care to our clients.
Easy Behavioral Health Services focuses on the holistic care of patients. I am a doctorate prepared Board- Certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 10 years of experience providing quality care to patients of different ages. Following the initial comprehensive and diagnostic evaluation, we develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve the health goals, provide compassionate, medication management, and holistic care to our clients.
(908) 873-3294 View (908) 873-3294
Photo of Chukwudi Victor Okolie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Chukwudi Victor Okolie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practioner, my career began in a corrections facility, where I found purpose in helping people during their lowest moments. That experience continues to inspire my passion for guiding others toward hope, healing, and a renewed sense of self. I believe treatment should feel like a genuine human-to-human connection built on empathy, trust, and understanding. My approach meets you exactly where you are, without judgment, and helps you take meaningful steps toward where you want to be.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practioner, my career began in a corrections facility, where I found purpose in helping people during their lowest moments. That experience continues to inspire my passion for guiding others toward hope, healing, and a renewed sense of self. I believe treatment should feel like a genuine human-to-human connection built on empathy, trust, and understanding. My approach meets you exactly where you are, without judgment, and helps you take meaningful steps toward where you want to be.
(206) 202-7326 View (206) 202-7326
Photo of Similoluwa Komolafe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Similoluwa Komolafe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Similoluwa Komolafe - but you can call me Simi. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New Jersey. I’m passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults better understand their mental health and feel empowered in their healing. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, mood fluctuations, behavioral challenges, or just feeling overwhelmed and stuck, I offer a space that is empathetic, where you will feel heard and validated.
Hi, I’m Similoluwa Komolafe - but you can call me Simi. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in New Jersey. I’m passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults better understand their mental health and feel empowered in their healing. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, mood fluctuations, behavioral challenges, or just feeling overwhelmed and stuck, I offer a space that is empathetic, where you will feel heard and validated.
(856) 699-5439 View (856) 699-5439
Photo of Tangular Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse, FNP, PMHNP
Tangular Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Tangular Barnes, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, is a dual-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, bringing a wealth of expertise to Premier Professional Counseling Services. Her comprehensive approach to mental health care is a cornerstone of our expanded services. With a master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and specialized certification in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Southern Mississippi, Tangular integrates a profound clinical understanding with a compassionate, patient-centered approach.
Tangular Barnes, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, is a dual-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, bringing a wealth of expertise to Premier Professional Counseling Services. Her comprehensive approach to mental health care is a cornerstone of our expanded services. With a master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and specialized certification in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Southern Mississippi, Tangular integrates a profound clinical understanding with a compassionate, patient-centered approach.
(551) 356-8242 View (551) 356-8242
Photo of Mag Ayorinde, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHNP-BC, APN
Mag Ayorinde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PHNP-BC, APN
Online Only
Do you desire a psychiatry practice that goes beyond prescriptions to address symptoms, but also commits to exploring non-medical determinants of health that may be impacting your overall well-being and affecting your conditions? You are at the right place! - AVAKI Health LLC. AVAKI was founded out of a desire to practice in a manner distinct from the mechanical and time-driven approach currently prevalent in the field. At AVAKI, you will find a practice that is collaborative, respectful, and pursues integrative methods in the pursuit of client psychiatric stability and patients' wellness goals.
Do you desire a psychiatry practice that goes beyond prescriptions to address symptoms, but also commits to exploring non-medical determinants of health that may be impacting your overall well-being and affecting your conditions? You are at the right place! - AVAKI Health LLC. AVAKI was founded out of a desire to practice in a manner distinct from the mechanical and time-driven approach currently prevalent in the field. At AVAKI, you will find a practice that is collaborative, respectful, and pursues integrative methods in the pursuit of client psychiatric stability and patients' wellness goals.
(856) 856-2583 View (856) 856-2583
Photo of Lisa Scarlatella, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Lisa Scarlatella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
When you're overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, relationship strain, or deep sadness, it can feel like there's no room to breathe. Many of my patients come to me navigating eating disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, grief, or the emotional weight of major life transitions such as divorce or identity shifts. My role is to create a space where your story is heard, and your needs guide the path forward. Together, we’ll build a personalized plan that combines supportive therapy with thoughtful medication management to help you feel more grounded, capable, and empowered.
When you're overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, relationship strain, or deep sadness, it can feel like there's no room to breathe. Many of my patients come to me navigating eating disorders, depression, OCD, PTSD, grief, or the emotional weight of major life transitions such as divorce or identity shifts. My role is to create a space where your story is heard, and your needs guide the path forward. Together, we’ll build a personalized plan that combines supportive therapy with thoughtful medication management to help you feel more grounded, capable, and empowered.
(551) 210-4766 View (551) 210-4766
Photo of Nahil Chohan, Psychiatrist, MD
Nahil Chohan
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Chohan is a board-certified psychiatrist, is proudly part of Tri America TMSKeta, and is offering tele-visits for adults of all ages.
Dr. Chohan is a board-certified psychiatrist, is proudly part of Tri America TMSKeta, and is offering tele-visits for adults of all ages.
(201) 627-9419 View (201) 627-9419
Photo of Rachene Alexander, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Rachene Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Rachene Alexander, NP, is an empathetic and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College, where she cultivated her deep understanding of mental health. With experience treating both adolescents and adults with a range of mental health disorders, Rachene approaches every individual with compassion and sensitivity. She genuinely cares about the well-being of her patients and is dedicated to providing the emotional support they need throughout their treatment journey.
Rachene Alexander, NP, is an empathetic and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College, where she cultivated her deep understanding of mental health. With experience treating both adolescents and adults with a range of mental health disorders, Rachene approaches every individual with compassion and sensitivity. She genuinely cares about the well-being of her patients and is dedicated to providing the emotional support they need throughout their treatment journey.
(609) 324-5690 View (609) 324-5690
Photo of Daniel Lowenstein - Brightside Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Brightside Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(848) 278-6269 View (848) 278-6269
Photo of Teresa Omwenga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Teresa Omwenga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand the courage it takes to seek help. If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, or if you're struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, you don't have to navigate it alone. My goal is to meet you where you are and provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can begin your journey to wellness.
I understand the courage it takes to seek help. If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, or if you're struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, you don't have to navigate it alone. My goal is to meet you where you are and provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can begin your journey to wellness.
(908) 201-3904 View (908) 201-3904
Photo of Casey Ann Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Casey Ann Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience working across various settings within the continuum of care. My passion lies in caring for clients with substance use disorders. I also enjoy caring for clients with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. Having cared for vulnerable populations in large metropolitan areas, I've developed a strong commitment to providing access to affordable, quality mental health care — no matter where a patient may be located. In my free time, you can find me reading a good book, cheering on my kids as a proud sports mom, or trying new restaurants.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience working across various settings within the continuum of care. My passion lies in caring for clients with substance use disorders. I also enjoy caring for clients with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. Having cared for vulnerable populations in large metropolitan areas, I've developed a strong commitment to providing access to affordable, quality mental health care — no matter where a patient may be located. In my free time, you can find me reading a good book, cheering on my kids as a proud sports mom, or trying new restaurants.
(973) 798-9208 View (973) 798-9208
Photo of Tina James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tina James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Walden University in 2020 with my MSN and focus in psychiatry as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for about seven years with experience in inpatient psychiatry, medical surgical, ER crisis management, forensic and detox nursing. Psychiatry is dear to my heart and I enjoy advocating for mental healthcare. The mind, body and soul make up wellness and health, so without the proper mental health treatment, holistic care is incomplete.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Walden University in 2020 with my MSN and focus in psychiatry as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for about seven years with experience in inpatient psychiatry, medical surgical, ER crisis management, forensic and detox nursing. Psychiatry is dear to my heart and I enjoy advocating for mental healthcare. The mind, body and soul make up wellness and health, so without the proper mental health treatment, holistic care is incomplete.
(609) 438-8910 View (609) 438-8910

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Joann Zanghi-Mace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, APRN
Joann Zanghi-Mace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BA, MSN, APRN
Serves Area
My ideal client is a person who wants help. Whether it is Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, or Bipolar Disorder, I want my patients to strive to keep an open mind and are motivated to feel better. I am passionate about the creation of a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, safety, exploration, insight, strength, and direction as an integral aspect of your treatment.
My ideal client is a person who wants help. Whether it is Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, or Bipolar Disorder, I want my patients to strive to keep an open mind and are motivated to feel better. I am passionate about the creation of a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, safety, exploration, insight, strength, and direction as an integral aspect of your treatment.
(856) 492-6043 View (856) 492-6043
Photo of Raquel Martinez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Raquel Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030
My name is Raquel Martinez. I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. My main goal is to provide the highest standard and quality of care with respect and dignity to those struggling with their mental health.
My name is Raquel Martinez. I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. My main goal is to provide the highest standard and quality of care with respect and dignity to those struggling with their mental health.
(732) 633-7700 View (732) 633-7700
Photo of Amy Kowalewski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Amy Kowalewski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Red Bank, NJ 07701
You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, or other diagnoses that make daily life feel heavy and overwhelming. Perhaps you’ve tried medications before and haven’t found the right fit, or you feel stuck in a cycle of symptoms that hold you back from the life you want. You’re looking for relief, stability, and wanting to feel more like yourself again, with the energy and clarity to move forward. Your goals may include finding effective treatment, building resilience, and regaining a sense of balance and connection in your life.
You may be struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, or other diagnoses that make daily life feel heavy and overwhelming. Perhaps you’ve tried medications before and haven’t found the right fit, or you feel stuck in a cycle of symptoms that hold you back from the life you want. You’re looking for relief, stability, and wanting to feel more like yourself again, with the energy and clarity to move forward. Your goals may include finding effective treatment, building resilience, and regaining a sense of balance and connection in your life.
(732) 466-7146 View (732) 466-7146
Photo of Zhanna Berman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, CHES
Zhanna Berman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, CHES
Serves Area
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 9 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents, and adults.
Zhanna Berman is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC). Zhanna has over 9 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities, with many varieties of mental health issues affecting children, adolescents, and adults.
(845) 415-6649 View (845) 415-6649
Photo of Greg Yip, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Greg Yip
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Newark, NJ 07102
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
(201) 482-7847 View (201) 482-7847
Photo of Dr. Luiza Triolo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP-B
Dr. Luiza Triolo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873
I am a dedicated health professional committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and physical health through a comprehensive, evidence-based approach. My expertise includes treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Addictions, Obesity, eating disorders and metabolic health. I believe in a holistic treatment approach that integrates mental health care with metabolic lifestyle management. Over 200 Five-Star Reviews! Visit our site to learn more and schedule a consultation. We have several providers to ensure a good fit.
I am a dedicated health professional committed to helping individuals achieve mental wellness and physical health through a comprehensive, evidence-based approach. My expertise includes treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Addictions, Obesity, eating disorders and metabolic health. I believe in a holistic treatment approach that integrates mental health care with metabolic lifestyle management. Over 200 Five-Star Reviews! Visit our site to learn more and schedule a consultation. We have several providers to ensure a good fit.
(732) 561-5605 View (732) 561-5605

See more therapy options for 07002

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07002

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Psychiatrists in 07002 who prioritize treating:

80% Depression
73% Anxiety
73% Bipolar Disorder
73% Medication Management
67% ADHD
67% Sleep or Insomnia
60% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
86% Cigna and Evernorth
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07002 see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07002?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.