Psychiatrists in 07003

Judith I Barley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
When you're struggling with your mental health, finding the right care can feel overwhelming. I'm here to offer a compassionate and expert hand to help you navigate your journey toward healing. With many years of experience in psychiatric mental health care, I've had the privilege of working with individuals across all age groups, guiding them toward a brighter future. I provide comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, OCD, and various panic and mood disorders.
When you're struggling with your mental health, finding the right care can feel overwhelming. I'm here to offer a compassionate and expert hand to help you navigate your journey toward healing. With many years of experience in psychiatric mental health care, I've had the privilege of working with individuals across all age groups, guiding them toward a brighter future. I provide comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, OCD, and various panic and mood disorders.
(862) 453-9459 View (862) 453-9459
Caroline Severe Next Appt One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood instability, and other mental health challenges that are affecting their daily lives. Many of my clients come in feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or struggling to manage stress, relationships, or changes in their mental health. I support clients by providing thorough psychiatric evaluations, clear guidance, and individualized treatment plans. Together, we focus on stabilizing symptoms, improving daily functioning, and helping clients feel more in control of their mental health.
I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood instability, and other mental health challenges that are affecting their daily lives. Many of my clients come in feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or struggling to manage stress, relationships, or changes in their mental health. I support clients by providing thorough psychiatric evaluations, clear guidance, and individualized treatment plans. Together, we focus on stabilizing symptoms, improving daily functioning, and helping clients feel more in control of their mental health.
(862) 396-4366 View (862) 396-4366
Joseph Fleschner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Whether treating childhood behavior issues, trauma, PTSD, or substance abuse, Joe focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where patients feel understood and empowered to make positive changes. His expertise in trauma-informed care makes him a trusted resource for those recovering from difficult life experiences, including healthcare workers and individuals in civil service roles. In addition to his clinical work, Joe is experienced in addressing a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and sleep disorders.
Whether treating childhood behavior issues, trauma, PTSD, or substance abuse, Joe focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment where patients feel understood and empowered to make positive changes. His expertise in trauma-informed care makes him a trusted resource for those recovering from difficult life experiences, including healthcare workers and individuals in civil service roles. In addition to his clinical work, Joe is experienced in addressing a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, ADHD, depression, and sleep disorders.
(862) 407-3732 View (862) 407-3732
Melissa Denniston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood changes, trouble focusing, or feeling overwhelmed? Many people seek support when symptoms affect work, school, relationships, or daily life. You may feel worried, exhausted, unmotivated, or restless. New patient evaluations are available immediately. Whether you need an initial assessment, medication management, or a fresh approach, individualized care is available to help you regain balance and improve your mental health.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, mood changes, trouble focusing, or feeling overwhelmed? Many people seek support when symptoms affect work, school, relationships, or daily life. You may feel worried, exhausted, unmotivated, or restless. New patient evaluations are available immediately. Whether you need an initial assessment, medication management, or a fresh approach, individualized care is available to help you regain balance and improve your mental health.
(973) 988-1535 View (973) 988-1535
Yrlande Simon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
My ideal clients are adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders. Many seek care because they are struggling with emotional distress, life transitions, difficulty functioning at work or school, or they need medication management and supportive therapy. My team provides compassionate, evidence-based, and patient-centered care through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment plans, medication management, psychoeducation, and brief supportive therapy.
My ideal clients are adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma-related conditions, ADHD, and other psychiatric disorders. Many seek care because they are struggling with emotional distress, life transitions, difficulty functioning at work or school, or they need medication management and supportive therapy. My team provides compassionate, evidence-based, and patient-centered care through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment plans, medication management, psychoeducation, and brief supportive therapy.
(862) 430-2535 View (862) 430-2535
Nanda Muthusawmy
Psychiatrist, MD
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Nanda Muthusawmy, MD, is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of ADHD, mood regulation disorders, behavior disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, OCD, and Tic Disorders.
Nanda Muthusawmy, MD, is a Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of ADHD, mood regulation disorders, behavior disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, OCD, and Tic Disorders.
(862) 236-3219 View (862) 236-3219
Shirley Garcia Silva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I help individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I take a holistic, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or relationship struggles, we will work together to create meaningful change
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I help individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I take a holistic, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or relationship struggles, we will work together to create meaningful change
(848) 213-9432 View (848) 213-9432
Linda Logang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
27 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
I am Dr. Linda Logang a dual board-certified doctorate prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I completed my dual bachelor’s degree in biology and nursing with highest honors at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, AR. I then earned 2 Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) family focus and psychiatric mental health focus and Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with honors at Rutgers School of Nursing in Newark, NJ and Wilkes University in PA.
I am Dr. Linda Logang a dual board-certified doctorate prepared Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I completed my dual bachelor’s degree in biology and nursing with highest honors at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, AR. I then earned 2 Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) family focus and psychiatric mental health focus and Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) with honors at Rutgers School of Nursing in Newark, NJ and Wilkes University in PA.
(973) 791-7064 View (973) 791-7064
Marie Jocelyne Seignon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Marie, Seignon, APN
Serves Area
You're struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, or managing the complexities of a severe condition like Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia. You need a provider who offers evidence-based, holistic care that integrates physical, emotional, and social well-being. Your goal is stability, a clear diagnosis, and a collaborative treatment plan that leads to a better quality of life. You want effective, scientific help tailored just for you.
You're struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, or managing the complexities of a severe condition like Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia. You need a provider who offers evidence-based, holistic care that integrates physical, emotional, and social well-being. Your goal is stability, a clear diagnosis, and a collaborative treatment plan that leads to a better quality of life. You want effective, scientific help tailored just for you.
(201) 734-5517 View (201) 734-5517
Oksana Libelt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Oksana Libelt. I have been in medicine almost 25 years. My clinical background include different varies of care from critical care to proctology. I have started my career in Russia and continued to peruse my profession in USA. I am living in Matawan, New Jersey with my husband and three children. Education has always been a big and important part of my life. My point of view is, as much as we know, the more we can offer for society and patients.
My name is Oksana Libelt. I have been in medicine almost 25 years. My clinical background include different varies of care from critical care to proctology. I have started my career in Russia and continued to peruse my profession in USA. I am living in Matawan, New Jersey with my husband and three children. Education has always been a big and important part of my life. My point of view is, as much as we know, the more we can offer for society and patients.
(908) 388-9197 View (908) 388-9197
John R Cooke
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and am board-certified in psychiatry. My background in medicine is diverse; I have also been an emergency physician. It is my professional conviction that one can live a meaningful and fulfilling life only through addressing the health of both the mind and the body. Thus, effective psychiatry must assess all aspects of a patient's condition.
I graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and am board-certified in psychiatry. My background in medicine is diverse; I have also been an emergency physician. It is my professional conviction that one can live a meaningful and fulfilling life only through addressing the health of both the mind and the body. Thus, effective psychiatry must assess all aspects of a patient's condition.
(973) 509-1500 View (973) 509-1500
Dr. Ketrice-Ann Delonnay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in living optimally and helping others work towards it with patience and realism. My career started as an RN in medicine, with both nursing and psychology degrees. I earned a DNP in 2023 and a master's in psychiatry in 2020, which is when I started my career as an NP. I began inpatient, therefore, I have experience in treating severe mood disorders, OCD, anxiety, psychotic and trauma disorders. I transitioned to outpatient care in 2023 where I focus on medication management for trauma, mood, anxiety and personality disorders, ADHD and more.
I believe in living optimally and helping others work towards it with patience and realism. My career started as an RN in medicine, with both nursing and psychology degrees. I earned a DNP in 2023 and a master's in psychiatry in 2020, which is when I started my career as an NP. I began inpatient, therefore, I have experience in treating severe mood disorders, OCD, anxiety, psychotic and trauma disorders. I transitioned to outpatient care in 2023 where I focus on medication management for trauma, mood, anxiety and personality disorders, ADHD and more.
(929) 416-5825 View (929) 416-5825
Gail Boyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, RN, NP-C, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience working in diverse clinical environments, from correctional healthcare to top-tier medical centers. Caring for people from many backgrounds has shaped my belief that mental health treatment should feel human and accessible. My approach is warm, conversational, and rooted in authentic curiosity about your story and what brought you here. My tele-health practice serves adults across New Jersey and New York, including all five boroughs and communities across the Hudson Valley and Upstate New York, including Western and Central New York.
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than 20 years of experience working in diverse clinical environments, from correctional healthcare to top-tier medical centers. Caring for people from many backgrounds has shaped my belief that mental health treatment should feel human and accessible. My approach is warm, conversational, and rooted in authentic curiosity about your story and what brought you here. My tele-health practice serves adults across New Jersey and New York, including all five boroughs and communities across the Hudson Valley and Upstate New York, including Western and Central New York.
(973) 846-9391 View (973) 846-9391
Azuka Ofodike
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-BC, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Azuka Ofodike; a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years experience providing dedicated and skilled behavioral and mental health services. In this role; I have worked to help clients heal and grow as well as change lives in the inpatient; outpatient and partial hospitalization programs with focus on adolescents and/or adults to end of life. I have expertise in psychiatric evaluation; psychotherapy and medication management with focus on comprehensive and holistic mental health care to help individuals function better. My ultimate goal is in helping patients and/or families struggling with mental illness.
My name is Azuka Ofodike; a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner with over 14 years experience providing dedicated and skilled behavioral and mental health services. In this role; I have worked to help clients heal and grow as well as change lives in the inpatient; outpatient and partial hospitalization programs with focus on adolescents and/or adults to end of life. I have expertise in psychiatric evaluation; psychotherapy and medication management with focus on comprehensive and holistic mental health care to help individuals function better. My ultimate goal is in helping patients and/or families struggling with mental illness.
(862) 225-6751 View (862) 225-6751
Jess Eggers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in evidence-based treatment for adults. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapeutic interventions with a focus on collaborative, patient-centered care. I integrate modalities such as CBT-informed approaches, psychoeducation, and mindfulness-based strategies to support clients in improving mood, reducing anxiety, and achieving sustainable wellness. I am committed to clear communication, thoughtful clinical decision-making, and empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in evidence-based treatment for adults. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and therapeutic interventions with a focus on collaborative, patient-centered care. I integrate modalities such as CBT-informed approaches, psychoeducation, and mindfulness-based strategies to support clients in improving mood, reducing anxiety, and achieving sustainable wellness. I am committed to clear communication, thoughtful clinical decision-making, and empowering patients to take an active role in their mental health.
(908) 356-7489 View (908) 356-7489
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
(201) 862-4816 View (201) 862-4816
Complete Integrative Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APN-C
Online Only
My job is to work with my clients and support them in their journey toward achieving positive mental health. i work with the whole person and look at their past and present experiences and how they have shaped their "today." We examine their needs, goals and aspirations for the future. It is extremely possible to find balance, health, stability and happiness in life but it will take hard work through trust, examination, transparency, therapy and time. "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Neil Donald Walsh. I truly believe when we are challenged and made to feel uncomfortable via self journey healing begins naturally.
My job is to work with my clients and support them in their journey toward achieving positive mental health. i work with the whole person and look at their past and present experiences and how they have shaped their "today." We examine their needs, goals and aspirations for the future. It is extremely possible to find balance, health, stability and happiness in life but it will take hard work through trust, examination, transparency, therapy and time. "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Neil Donald Walsh. I truly believe when we are challenged and made to feel uncomfortable via self journey healing begins naturally.
(732) 466-7405 View (732) 466-7405
Amaka Ikemefuna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, I am Amaka Ikemefuna, APN, PMHNP - BC. With almost eleven years of experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have worked in inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and crisis intervention programs. I have supported patients across the lifespan—from adolescents to older adults—while working closely with multidisciplinary teams. My approach to mental health is holistic and deeply patient‑centered, and I strive to ensure every individual feels respected, heard, and valued.
Hello, I am Amaka Ikemefuna, APN, PMHNP - BC. With almost eleven years of experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have worked in inpatient units, outpatient clinics, and crisis intervention programs. I have supported patients across the lifespan—from adolescents to older adults—while working closely with multidisciplinary teams. My approach to mental health is holistic and deeply patient‑centered, and I strive to ensure every individual feels respected, heard, and valued.
(848) 279-5808 View (848) 279-5808
Mary Bernardo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, sleep difficulties, and life transitions. As a dually certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate, I take a personalized approach that recognizes the connection between mental and physical health. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered in your journey toward greater well-being. Whatever stage of life you're in, you don't have to face it alone.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, sleep difficulties, and life transitions. As a dually certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate, I take a personalized approach that recognizes the connection between mental and physical health. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered in your journey toward greater well-being. Whatever stage of life you're in, you don't have to face it alone.
(201) 514-5861 View (201) 514-5861
Leo Onuoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Leo Onuoha, MSN, PMHNP, APN. I adopt a holistic approach to mental health and addiction management by integrating medication with psychotherapy to ensure personalized and effective care. Empowerment, non judgmental, patient centered and nurturing approach. Applies multi dimensional strategies encompassing, psychodynamics, behaviorism, humanistic, and cognitive functions.
Hi there, I'm Leo Onuoha, MSN, PMHNP, APN. I adopt a holistic approach to mental health and addiction management by integrating medication with psychotherapy to ensure personalized and effective care. Empowerment, non judgmental, patient centered and nurturing approach. Applies multi dimensional strategies encompassing, psychodynamics, behaviorism, humanistic, and cognitive functions.
(908) 257-8359 View (908) 257-8359

See more therapy options for 07003

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07003

20+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 07003 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
83% Depression
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% ADHD
75% Medication Management
67% Bipolar Disorder
63% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
68% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07003 see their clients

54% Online Only
46% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07003?

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.