Psychiatrists in 07006

Photo of Mona Maaty, Psychiatrist, MD
Mona Maaty
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006
My goal is to help you remember your truest essence - the core of who you are and who you know you were meant to be. I am a holistic psychiatrist focused on deep healing. Together, we embark on an inner journey of self-exploration in which sometimes I guide you and other times I am guided by you. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 2 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
My goal is to help you remember your truest essence - the core of who you are and who you know you were meant to be. I am a holistic psychiatrist focused on deep healing. Together, we embark on an inner journey of self-exploration in which sometimes I guide you and other times I am guided by you. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 2 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
(862) 254-8911 View (862) 254-8911
Photo of Kathleen Prendergast, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Kathleen Prendergast
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Caldwell, NJ 07006
If you need help promptly for panic attacks, depression or other disturbing symptoms, don't hesitate to call. Most people try to manage their emotional problems without seeking professional assistance and wait until the last minute to get help. If you are in this situation, call, and I will try to see you within 24 hours. I will listen to your history and gather information so we can form a plan together to improve how you are feeling.
If you need help promptly for panic attacks, depression or other disturbing symptoms, don't hesitate to call. Most people try to manage their emotional problems without seeking professional assistance and wait until the last minute to get help. If you are in this situation, call, and I will try to see you within 24 hours. I will listen to your history and gather information so we can form a plan together to improve how you are feeling.
(973) 718-5117 View (973) 718-5117
Photo of Marie Jocelyne Seignon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Marie, Seignon, APN
Marie Jocelyne Seignon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Marie, Seignon, APN
Caldwell, NJ 07006
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
Photo of Dr. Banu Ozkan Karadag, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Banu Ozkan Karadag
Psychiatrist, MD
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I have over 20 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, working across various settings. My journey began In Türkiye, my home country, where I was fully trained and practiced before I decided to continue my career in the US. I completed a postdoctoral training at Yale University, where I focused on patients with psychosis. Additionally, I worked in a geriatric psychiatric unit at Yale Psychiatric Hospital, gaining valuable experience with elderly patients suffering from mental illness and dementia. I completed my residency at Rutgers NJMS, which provided me a broad range of clinical experience.
I have over 20 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, working across various settings. My journey began In Türkiye, my home country, where I was fully trained and practiced before I decided to continue my career in the US. I completed a postdoctoral training at Yale University, where I focused on patients with psychosis. Additionally, I worked in a geriatric psychiatric unit at Yale Psychiatric Hospital, gaining valuable experience with elderly patients suffering from mental illness and dementia. I completed my residency at Rutgers NJMS, which provided me a broad range of clinical experience.
(973) 506-2931 View (973) 506-2931
Photo of Linda A Perry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Linda A Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
11 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006
If you or your child no longer feel real joy, I’d like to help. The core of my practice is judicious medication management. I’ve been doing this for many years: first as a nurse-midwife, now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am still dual-credentialed in both. I treat people of all types, but most frequently children and perinatal women. My patients, big and small, grapple with issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, OCD and eating disorders. Issues around fertility, pregnancy, parenting and menopause remain among my strengths, even though I rarely deliver babies anymore (and I miss it, sometimes!). My approach is holistic.
If you or your child no longer feel real joy, I’d like to help. The core of my practice is judicious medication management. I’ve been doing this for many years: first as a nurse-midwife, now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am still dual-credentialed in both. I treat people of all types, but most frequently children and perinatal women. My patients, big and small, grapple with issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, OCD and eating disorders. Issues around fertility, pregnancy, parenting and menopause remain among my strengths, even though I rarely deliver babies anymore (and I miss it, sometimes!). My approach is holistic.
(201) 676-8572 View (201) 676-8572
Photo of Dr. Rachael Brothers, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Rachael Brothers
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Rachael Brothers, DO earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Miami prior to completion of medical school in New York City at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine where she graduated in the top five percent of her class. She completed her psychiatric residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ, one of the country’s largest psychiatric hospitals. Dr. Brothers is passionate about a holistic approach to wellbeing while treating a spectrum of diagnoses.
Dr. Rachael Brothers, DO earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Miami prior to completion of medical school in New York City at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine where she graduated in the top five percent of her class. She completed her psychiatric residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ, one of the country’s largest psychiatric hospitals. Dr. Brothers is passionate about a holistic approach to wellbeing while treating a spectrum of diagnoses.
(973) 836-5127 View (973) 836-5127
Photo of Vaishali Desai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP, PMHNPBC
Vaishali Desai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BA, PMHNP, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a challenging relationship, loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, your work, career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated by just getting through the day, answering emails, texts or calls? Do you hope that life could be better? Now more than ever all people are feeling uncertain about overcoming a difficult relationship, working through a loss, and finding their place in life.
(862) 346-5841 View (862) 346-5841
Photo of Cherie Elfenbein, Psychiatrist, MD
Cherie Elfenbein
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am board certified in adult psychiatry and I work with clients to attain mental wellness in all areas of one’s life. My practice and integrates psychopharmacology with my interest/training in nutrition, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mind-body therapies. My areas of expertise are in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma, ADD/H and PMS/PMDD. I search for the underlying physiologic causes that can contribute to your symptoms or challenges. Supplements, vitamins, and herbs may be recommended along with or instead of medicine. Blood work and Genetic testing are offered to personalize treatment to your unique physiology.
I am board certified in adult psychiatry and I work with clients to attain mental wellness in all areas of one’s life. My practice and integrates psychopharmacology with my interest/training in nutrition, mindfulness, yoga, exercise, and mind-body therapies. My areas of expertise are in treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, trauma, ADD/H and PMS/PMDD. I search for the underlying physiologic causes that can contribute to your symptoms or challenges. Supplements, vitamins, and herbs may be recommended along with or instead of medicine. Blood work and Genetic testing are offered to personalize treatment to your unique physiology.
(973) 333-4087 View (973) 333-4087
Photo of Josephine Lopez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Josephine Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who has been carrying more than they let on. On the outside, they may be functioning going to work, caring for others, keeping up with responsibilities but internally they feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from themselves. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, mood instability, trauma-related symptoms, difficulty focusing, or a sense that their emotions are controlling their life instead of the other way around.
My ideal client is someone who has been carrying more than they let on. On the outside, they may be functioning going to work, caring for others, keeping up with responsibilities but internally they feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from themselves. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, mood instability, trauma-related symptoms, difficulty focusing, or a sense that their emotions are controlling their life instead of the other way around.
(973) 370-8513 View (973) 370-8513
Photo of Julianne Palardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Julianne Palardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
Not accepting new clients
If you are looking for a mental health provider that integrates both personal growth in conjunction with medication management I am the ideal practitioner. I focus on anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorders. Having been in healthcare for over 22 years, I feel it is most important to feel heard, valued, and understood. My client goals include achieving stability, developing effective coping skills, cognitive behavioral change, and enhancing one’s quality of life through effective skills training. You can book an appointment through my website at: care.headway.co/providers/julianne-palardy
If you are looking for a mental health provider that integrates both personal growth in conjunction with medication management I am the ideal practitioner. I focus on anxiety, depression, and post traumatic stress disorders. Having been in healthcare for over 22 years, I feel it is most important to feel heard, valued, and understood. My client goals include achieving stability, developing effective coping skills, cognitive behavioral change, and enhancing one’s quality of life through effective skills training. You can book an appointment through my website at: care.headway.co/providers/julianne-palardy
(862) 453-8814 View (862) 453-8814

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Folake Bello Akintunde, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Folake Bello Akintunde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Hamburg, NJ 07419
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
My ideal client willingly engages in therapy, desiring a nurturing space to express themselves. They crave practical strategies for emotional management, obstacle navigation, and overall well-being improvement. Their objective is to gain mental health empowerment, adeptly tackle challenges, and foster healthier habits. Ultimately, they aim for personal growth and a fulfilling life congruent with their values.
(973) 319-7157 View (973) 319-7157
Photo of Todd Mekles, Psychiatrist, MD
Todd Mekles
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Expert in treating all psychiatric conditions. Employ a targeted approach utilizing the biopsychosocial model to target appropriate medications, and utilized the appropriate therapy for mental well being. Years of success in treating the most refractory of cases. We work together to form the strongest therapeutic alliance so you can be well.
Expert in treating all psychiatric conditions. Employ a targeted approach utilizing the biopsychosocial model to target appropriate medications, and utilized the appropriate therapy for mental well being. Years of success in treating the most refractory of cases. We work together to form the strongest therapeutic alliance so you can be well.
(646) 257-3782 View (646) 257-3782
Photo of Ritu Chandak, Psychiatrist, MD
Ritu Chandak
Psychiatrist, MD
Jersey City, NJ 07302
No matter what life circumstances bring you to seek treatment, you will find a compassionate and empathetic listener. My evaluation and treatment approach is thorough, professional and evidence based. I take a holistic view of the needs of my patients and recognize that a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, stress management and life style modification might achieve the best and sustained outcome for them.
No matter what life circumstances bring you to seek treatment, you will find a compassionate and empathetic listener. My evaluation and treatment approach is thorough, professional and evidence based. I take a holistic view of the needs of my patients and recognize that a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, stress management and life style modification might achieve the best and sustained outcome for them.
(201) 907-7875 View (201) 907-7875
Photo of Stella Nwachukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Stella Nwachukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Hi my name is Stella Nwachukwu , I am a proud Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For those with mental health disorders, medication management is often an important part of the recovery process when used in an effective way as part of the overall treatment. That is where I come in At Viewpoints Counseling Group, we understand that managing your mental health can be a complex journey.
Hi my name is Stella Nwachukwu , I am a proud Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For those with mental health disorders, medication management is often an important part of the recovery process when used in an effective way as part of the overall treatment. That is where I come in At Viewpoints Counseling Group, we understand that managing your mental health can be a complex journey.
(732) 226-8857 View (732) 226-8857
Photo of Dr. Leopold Bolona, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Leopold Bolona
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Dr. Leopold Bolona is a compassionate psychiatrist in private practice in Westfield and Wall Township NJ seeing adults only at this time. The practice has 24 providers including Nurse Practitioners and Therapists offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment for a variety of issues such as: Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, addiction and more.The practice offers both in person and telehealth. All offices offer Genetic testing and Neuropsych testing. Both offices also offers both TMS and Spravato treatments.
Dr. Leopold Bolona is a compassionate psychiatrist in private practice in Westfield and Wall Township NJ seeing adults only at this time. The practice has 24 providers including Nurse Practitioners and Therapists offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment for a variety of issues such as: Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, addiction and more.The practice offers both in person and telehealth. All offices offer Genetic testing and Neuropsych testing. Both offices also offers both TMS and Spravato treatments.
(732) 440-3179 View (732) 440-3179
Photo of Olubunmi Adetule, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN-C
Olubunmi Adetule
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APN-C
Springfield, NJ 07081
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across-the-lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors) to clients with diverse mental health needs including substance abuse treatment and management, with the aim of improving their overall state of affairs. I am compassionate and devoted to my patients, I am a skilled and an experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across-the-lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors) to clients with diverse mental health needs including substance abuse treatment and management, with the aim of improving their overall state of affairs. I am compassionate and devoted to my patients, I am a skilled and an experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.
(908) 499-5375 View (908) 499-5375
Photo of Dr. Fehintola Ogunsakin - PMC Psychiatric Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN
PMC Psychiatric Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
(908) 840-8719 View (908) 840-8719
Photo of Alena Debrosse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, APN, RN
Alena Debrosse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, APN, RN
1 Endorsed
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Alena Debrosse has over 20 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and continues to help clients heal and grow optimally. Her focus is primarily on medication management but her approach is to get to know the whole person, your struggles, your supports and the environment in which you live. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting. She loves what she does and this will show in her interactions with you. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting.
Alena Debrosse has over 20 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and continues to help clients heal and grow optimally. Her focus is primarily on medication management but her approach is to get to know the whole person, your struggles, your supports and the environment in which you live. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting. She loves what she does and this will show in her interactions with you. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting.
(201) 537-4831 View (201) 537-4831
Photo of Cynthia Ankrah - Haven Healthcare Services , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Haven Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
An ideal client in need of psychiatric services may present with various mental health issues that require a more specialized and medical approach to treatment. Their issues may be that they might be dealing with severe mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, severe anxiety disorders, or other complex psychiatric conditions that significantly impact their daily functioning. Clients seeking psychiatric services often desire stability, relief from distressing symptoms, and the ability to lead fulfilling lives despite their mental health challenges.
An ideal client in need of psychiatric services may present with various mental health issues that require a more specialized and medical approach to treatment. Their issues may be that they might be dealing with severe mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, severe anxiety disorders, or other complex psychiatric conditions that significantly impact their daily functioning. Clients seeking psychiatric services often desire stability, relief from distressing symptoms, and the ability to lead fulfilling lives despite their mental health challenges.
(732) 365-0468 View (732) 365-0468
Photo of Herma Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Herma Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
East Orange, NJ 07018
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over 2 years of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia; Anxiety disorders; Bipolar Disorder; Depression; PTSD; Addiction; and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you not just mentally fulfilled but holistically.
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over 2 years of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia; Anxiety disorders; Bipolar Disorder; Depression; PTSD; Addiction; and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you not just mentally fulfilled but holistically.
(973) 834-5521 View (973) 834-5521

See more therapy options for 07006

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07006

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 07006 who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
80% Anxiety
80% Medication Management
70% ADHD
60% Trauma and PTSD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
100% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
75% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 07006 see their clients

90% In Person and Online
10% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07006?

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.