Psychiatrists in 07006

Photo of Mona Maaty, Psychiatrist, MD
Mona Maaty
Psychiatrist, MD
Caldwell, NJ 07006
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common emotions that we experience at some point in our lives and sometimes these emotions can feel overpowering. Many individuals also experience lingering anxiety, fear, and hopelessness, associated with painful and traumatic events. My goal is to help you rediscover your innate strength and empower you to navigate life’s challenges and ultimately reclaim joy. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
Depression, fear, and anxiety are common emotions that we experience at some point in our lives and sometimes these emotions can feel overpowering. Many individuals also experience lingering anxiety, fear, and hopelessness, associated with painful and traumatic events. My goal is to help you rediscover your innate strength and empower you to navigate life’s challenges and ultimately reclaim joy. My approach is collaborative and often includes a combination of psychotherapy and medication. I am an IFS (Internal Family System) level 1 trained therapist, certified schema therapist, and integrate a somatic approach.
(862) 254-8911 View (862) 254-8911
Photo of Linda A Perry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Linda A Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
10 Endorsed
Online Only
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 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 Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(973) 791-5199 View (973) 791-5199
Photo of Amanda Gaurnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Gaurnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Caldwell, NJ 07006
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
(973) 949-6024 View (973) 949-6024
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Caldwell, NJ 07006
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
(973) 737-9425 View (973) 737-9425
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders, and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(973) 352-0635 View (973) 352-0635
Photo of Julianne Palardy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Julianne Palardy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
My ideal client is looking for a mental health provider that has vast clinical experience. I have been in the medical profession for over 22 years. I am the ideal person for someone that seeks support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma or life transitions. They want to feel heard, valued, and understood while working toward improved well-being. Their goals include achieving stability, developing coping skills, and enhancing their quality of life through effective, compassionate care. You can book an immediate appointment with me through the website listed below, thank you.
My ideal client is looking for a mental health provider that has vast clinical experience. I have been in the medical profession for over 22 years. I am the ideal person for someone that seeks support for mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma or life transitions. They want to feel heard, valued, and understood while working toward improved well-being. Their goals include achieving stability, developing coping skills, and enhancing their quality of life through effective, compassionate care. You can book an immediate appointment with me through the website listed below, thank you.
(862) 453-8814 View (862) 453-8814
Photo of Andrea Papa-Molter, Psychiatrist, MD
Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(973) 545-7567 View (973) 545-7567
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Caldwell, NJ 07006
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(973) 240-5262 View (973) 240-5262
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Caldwell, NJ 07006
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand the their symptoms and provide good competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand the their symptoms and provide good competent care.
(973) 346-9781 View (973) 346-9781
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 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 Marcel Kaganovskaya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Marcel Kaganovskaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner I focus on giving you the tools to achieve the best version of yourself. Times may be hard, but I am here to help. I enjoy working with various communities such as LGBTQI+ & see patients of all ages. I assist clients with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention- Deficit/Hyperactive Disorders (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), daily stress and other mental health needs. I accept most insurances in NY & NJ. Feel free to make an appointment today & visit my website at: www.mindfulcognition.com
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner I focus on giving you the tools to achieve the best version of yourself. Times may be hard, but I am here to help. I enjoy working with various communities such as LGBTQI+ & see patients of all ages. I assist clients with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention- Deficit/Hyperactive Disorders (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), daily stress and other mental health needs. I accept most insurances in NY & NJ. Feel free to make an appointment today & visit my website at: www.mindfulcognition.com
(973) 545-7125 View (973) 545-7125
Photo of Valsamma Joy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Valsamma Joy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
(732) 440-3016 View (732) 440-3016

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Vanessa Doobay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Vanessa Doobay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 10+ years professional nursing experience in the field of mental health. I am committed to providing care to patients from all walks of life by bringing my unique experience in caring for people from diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences. I look forward to helping our communities overcome the stigma and barriers associated with mental health and seeking mental health care. I am also an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider- ( ADHD-CCSP)
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 10+ years professional nursing experience in the field of mental health. I am committed to providing care to patients from all walks of life by bringing my unique experience in caring for people from diverse cultural backgrounds and life experiences. I look forward to helping our communities overcome the stigma and barriers associated with mental health and seeking mental health care. I am also an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider- ( ADHD-CCSP)
(908) 641-3358 View (908) 641-3358
Photo of Maria Karmina Cartasano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-C
Maria Karmina Cartasano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with persistent sadness, or experiencing mood swings that impact your daily life? You’re not alone, and support is available. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with persistent sadness, or experiencing mood swings that impact your daily life? You’re not alone, and support is available. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
(973) 604-2891 View (973) 604-2891
Photo of Sarah Fajgenbaum-Teslja, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarah Fajgenbaum-Teslja
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Does this sound familiar? You're a successful professional yet anxiety and a harsh inner critic make you feel like an imposter and keep you from enjoying your life. Or you're the smart, creative type. You've been told you have endless potential, but you struggle to stay on task and the shame of not following through is eating away at you. Or you're a young adult trying to figure out who you are and find your place in an unpredictable world. Your phone feels like the only place you can escape to. You've searched online for answers but now you're left with even more questions. Is it social anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD or autism?
Does this sound familiar? You're a successful professional yet anxiety and a harsh inner critic make you feel like an imposter and keep you from enjoying your life. Or you're the smart, creative type. You've been told you have endless potential, but you struggle to stay on task and the shame of not following through is eating away at you. Or you're a young adult trying to figure out who you are and find your place in an unpredictable world. Your phone feels like the only place you can escape to. You've searched online for answers but now you're left with even more questions. Is it social anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD or autism?
(973) 975-4352 View (973) 975-4352
Photo of Christina L Persaud, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Christina L Persaud
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
(646) 956-5955 View (646) 956-5955
Photo of Shani Stein, Psychiatrist, MD
Shani Stein
Psychiatrist, MD
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I am a licensed adult Psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD and Perinatal disorders. I offer both medication management and therapy in my practice. I am dedicated to helping my patients get back on their feet and helping them live a more happy and productive life.
I am a licensed adult Psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD and Perinatal disorders. I offer both medication management and therapy in my practice. I am dedicated to helping my patients get back on their feet and helping them live a more happy and productive life.
(201) 992-4247 View (201) 992-4247

See more therapy options for 07006

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07006

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07006 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% Trauma and PTSD
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Medication Management
63% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07006 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
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.