Psychiatrists in 07008

Photo of Shakira Odukale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Shakira Odukale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Online Only
Thanks for visiting my page! I’m passionate about helping adults and adolescents find balance, clarity, and confidence through compassionate, evidence-based care. With over five years of experience in mental health and 25 years in nursing, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment that honors each person’s story, culture, and values while developing personalized treatment plans rooted in empathy and collaboration.
Thanks for visiting my page! I’m passionate about helping adults and adolescents find balance, clarity, and confidence through compassionate, evidence-based care. With over five years of experience in mental health and 25 years in nursing, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment that honors each person’s story, culture, and values while developing personalized treatment plans rooted in empathy and collaboration.
(848) 291-8996 View (848) 291-8996
Photo of Tina Michelle Trautz-Damon - Handles With Care LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, ANCC, MSN, RN
Handles With Care LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, ANCC, MSN, RN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric NP, I provide compassionate, evidenced based care for individuals navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, bipolar/eating disorders & stress-related challenges. My approach is patient-centered & combines medication management with supportive therapeutic strategies that help you feel grounded, understood & empowered. I also believe in a holistic approach to mental wellness. When appropriate, I incorporate lifestyle modifications, nutrition support, coping techniques, & practical skill building to help you regain balance, resilience & emotional stability. Treatment is tailored to unique needs & goals.
As a Psychiatric NP, I provide compassionate, evidenced based care for individuals navigating ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, bipolar/eating disorders & stress-related challenges. My approach is patient-centered & combines medication management with supportive therapeutic strategies that help you feel grounded, understood & empowered. I also believe in a holistic approach to mental wellness. When appropriate, I incorporate lifestyle modifications, nutrition support, coping techniques, & practical skill building to help you regain balance, resilience & emotional stability. Treatment is tailored to unique needs & goals.
(856) 219-4507 View (856) 219-4507
Intuitive Behavioral Inc.
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
(201) 687-1208 View (201) 687-1208

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Kathryn Martinez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kathryn Martinez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Middlesex, NJ 08846
I believe that treatment is specific to each individual and I have the ability to incorporate an interdisciplinary evidence-based treatment approach through therapy, medication management, and holistic care in order to treat specific individualized symptoms.
I believe that treatment is specific to each individual and I have the ability to incorporate an interdisciplinary evidence-based treatment approach through therapy, medication management, and holistic care in order to treat specific individualized symptoms.
(908) 840-8486 View (908) 840-8486
Photo of Ketan Hirapara, Psychiatrist, MD
Ketan Hirapara
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Ketan Hirapara is a psychiatrist and fellowship trained interventional pain physician, licensed in NJ & PA. Dr. Hirapara specializes in treating comorbid mental health conditions associated with complex pain problems. Additionally, he also specializes in treating depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and mood disorders.
Dr. Ketan Hirapara is a psychiatrist and fellowship trained interventional pain physician, licensed in NJ & PA. Dr. Hirapara specializes in treating comorbid mental health conditions associated with complex pain problems. Additionally, he also specializes in treating depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and mood disorders.
(732) 906-9600 View (732) 906-9600
Photo of Dr. Shimon Schwartz, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dr. Shimon Schwartz
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Tenafly, NJ 07670
As highly functioning parents in the fast-paced environments of New York City and New Jersey, you know the pressures and demands placed on children and young adults today. When you notice your child or young adult son struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or high-functioning autism, it’s natural to worry about their ability to keep up and thrive. You want the best psychiatric care to support their emotional well-being and ensure they can grow into successful, well-adjusted adults.
As highly functioning parents in the fast-paced environments of New York City and New Jersey, you know the pressures and demands placed on children and young adults today. When you notice your child or young adult son struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or high-functioning autism, it’s natural to worry about their ability to keep up and thrive. You want the best psychiatric care to support their emotional well-being and ensure they can grow into successful, well-adjusted adults.
(917) 994-9668 View (917) 994-9668
Photo of Annette Allegra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Annette Allegra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Randolph, NJ 07869
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
(862) 206-5391 View (862) 206-5391
Photo of Ann Nolan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Ann Nolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Princeton, NJ 08544
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses ages 6 to 70 years old. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. She is currently a clinical preceptor for Yale School of Medicine and Yale School of Nursing for their NP and PA programs.
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses ages 6 to 70 years old. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. She is currently a clinical preceptor for Yale School of Medicine and Yale School of Nursing for their NP and PA programs.
(215) 608-7659 View (215) 608-7659
Photo of Michael Epstein - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, Psychiatrist
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatrist
Paramus, NJ 07652
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) serves children, adolescents, and their parents, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. Parents seek compassionate, accessible care to help their children thrive emotionally, academically, and socially, while children want to feel heard, gain confidence, and improve coping skills. FPT provides personalized care plans, quick access to psychiatry, and holistic family support, aiming to reduce family stress, improve communication, and empower clients with practical tools for long-term well-being.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy (FPT) serves children, adolescents, and their parents, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. Parents seek compassionate, accessible care to help their children thrive emotionally, academically, and socially, while children want to feel heard, gain confidence, and improve coping skills. FPT provides personalized care plans, quick access to psychiatry, and holistic family support, aiming to reduce family stress, improve communication, and empower clients with practical tools for long-term well-being.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Photo of Malathi Pilla, Psychiatrist, MD
Malathi Pilla
Psychiatrist, MD
I am board certified in Psychiatry. I am recognized by American Psychiatric Association (APA). I did my basic schooling and medical school in India. Completed Psychiatric residency in Southern Illinois University, Springfield, Illinois in 2016. I also have a brief psychiatric experience in Jamaica, West Indies, where I lived for couple of years before moving to United States. Later practiced as adult outpatient psychiatrist in Las Cruces, New Mexico until May, 2022. While in New Mexico, I volunteered to teach the Psychiatric residents from University of New Mexico and supervised the Nurse Practitioners.
I am board certified in Psychiatry. I am recognized by American Psychiatric Association (APA). I did my basic schooling and medical school in India. Completed Psychiatric residency in Southern Illinois University, Springfield, Illinois in 2016. I also have a brief psychiatric experience in Jamaica, West Indies, where I lived for couple of years before moving to United States. Later practiced as adult outpatient psychiatrist in Las Cruces, New Mexico until May, 2022. While in New Mexico, I volunteered to teach the Psychiatric residents from University of New Mexico and supervised the Nurse Practitioners.
(609) 905-5506 View (609) 905-5506
Photo of Joseph Zhou, Psychiatrist, MD
Joseph Zhou
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Are you searching for a friendly, respectful, and compassionate mental health professional who will treat you with the dignity that you deserve? We understand that it can be difficult to seek professional help for mental health concerns, and we work hard to provide confidential mental health services that put our clients’ needs first.
Are you searching for a friendly, respectful, and compassionate mental health professional who will treat you with the dignity that you deserve? We understand that it can be difficult to seek professional help for mental health concerns, and we work hard to provide confidential mental health services that put our clients’ needs first.
(973) 447-8572 View (973) 447-8572
Photo of Denise Daley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise Daley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
A nurse practitioner (NP) with 30 years of nursing experience, including work across multiple areas of healthcare, brings a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to managing complex adolescent behavioral and substance use issues like the one described in this case.
A nurse practitioner (NP) with 30 years of nursing experience, including work across multiple areas of healthcare, brings a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to managing complex adolescent behavioral and substance use issues like the one described in this case.
(908) 975-1300 View (908) 975-1300
Photo of Jeffrey Wolff, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeffrey Wolff
Psychiatrist, MD
Morristown, NJ 07960
Many of my patients have battled symptoms for years. Some have been in psychotherapy and some have tried psychiatric medications. Few have been able to work with one care provider in both modalities simultaneously. I offer this possibility- the option that many research studies have shown to be the most effective. I also offer medication focused treatment for those who are already working productively with a theraspist. As a physician I will take your overall health and nutritional status into account in formulating an approach to your care. I will make sure you are totally comfortable with our plan.
Many of my patients have battled symptoms for years. Some have been in psychotherapy and some have tried psychiatric medications. Few have been able to work with one care provider in both modalities simultaneously. I offer this possibility- the option that many research studies have shown to be the most effective. I also offer medication focused treatment for those who are already working productively with a theraspist. As a physician I will take your overall health and nutritional status into account in formulating an approach to your care. I will make sure you are totally comfortable with our plan.
(973) 536-2863 View (973) 536-2863
Photo of Dr. Helene Anne Miller, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Helene Anne Miller
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Miller is highly experienced and knowledgeable of today’s psychiatric care, but she is also trained in anesthesia and pain management, which she uses in her practice to influence treatment plans when appropriate. No matter what you’re experiencing in your life, Dr. Miller is waiting to welcome you into the comfortable and confidential atmosphere of Family Psychiatry and Therapy. It’s time to start living the life you want.vvWe never stop learning. To become an effective and helpful psychiatrist, Dr. Miller studied extensively and dove deep into the field she’s passionate about—helping people through psychiatry.
Dr. Miller is highly experienced and knowledgeable of today’s psychiatric care, but she is also trained in anesthesia and pain management, which she uses in her practice to influence treatment plans when appropriate. No matter what you’re experiencing in your life, Dr. Miller is waiting to welcome you into the comfortable and confidential atmosphere of Family Psychiatry and Therapy. It’s time to start living the life you want.vvWe never stop learning. To become an effective and helpful psychiatrist, Dr. Miller studied extensively and dove deep into the field she’s passionate about—helping people through psychiatry.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Photo of Kelly Perez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelly Perez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Welcome to MellowMinds Psychiatric Services LLC. I’m Kelly Perez, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and evidence-based care.
Welcome to MellowMinds Psychiatric Services LLC. I’m Kelly Perez, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and evidence-based care.
(908) 641-4948 View (908) 641-4948
Photo of Dr. Michael Sanya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Dr. Michael Sanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
6 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
Meet Dr. Michael Sanya, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in NY, NJ, and VT. With over 10 years of experience, he provides compassionate, evidence-based care for children, teens, and adults. Dr. Sanya’s holistic approach blends expertise with empathy, helping patients navigate challenges, find balance, and achieve emotional well-being. If you’ve been searching for a provider who truly listens and cares, your journey begins here—schedule your appointment today.
Meet Dr. Michael Sanya, DNP, PMHNP-BC, a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in NY, NJ, and VT. With over 10 years of experience, he provides compassionate, evidence-based care for children, teens, and adults. Dr. Sanya’s holistic approach blends expertise with empathy, helping patients navigate challenges, find balance, and achieve emotional well-being. If you’ve been searching for a provider who truly listens and cares, your journey begins here—schedule your appointment today.
(862) 378-3277 View (862) 378-3277
Photo of Aderoju Arasanyin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Aderoju Arasanyin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Newark, NJ 07102
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
(201) 389-9137 View (201) 389-9137
Photo of Vanessa Doobay - Jersey Forensic Consulting (Psychiatry), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jersey Forensic Consulting (Psychiatry)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
Vanessa Doobay, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 10+ years of nursing experience in mental health. She spent the majority of her nursing career caring for patients with mental health needs ranging from the long-term care, adults, and gerontology community to patients with addiction and acute withdrawal. Her goals are to help individuals and families who are struggling with mental illnesses particularly those in minority, transgender, and gender-expansive communities. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider(ADHD-CCSP)
Vanessa Doobay, RN, MSN, PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 10+ years of nursing experience in mental health. She spent the majority of her nursing career caring for patients with mental health needs ranging from the long-term care, adults, and gerontology community to patients with addiction and acute withdrawal. Her goals are to help individuals and families who are struggling with mental illnesses particularly those in minority, transgender, and gender-expansive communities. I am an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider(ADHD-CCSP)
(609) 928-8554 View (609) 928-8554
Photo of Gagandeep Singh - Gagandeep Singh, MD, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Gagandeep Singh, MD, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
The practice of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, as well as Adult Psychiatry, is as exciting as it is varied. This specialty is truly one of the last bastions in modern medicine that allows the practitioner to 'connect' with the patient, and one where the value of the patient's input is not underestimated. My clinical interests include childhood and adolescent depression, other mood disorders, ADHD, child and adolescent anxiety disorders such as OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder. I also work with adults on all of the above issues. I look forward to helping you!
The practice of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, as well as Adult Psychiatry, is as exciting as it is varied. This specialty is truly one of the last bastions in modern medicine that allows the practitioner to 'connect' with the patient, and one where the value of the patient's input is not underestimated. My clinical interests include childhood and adolescent depression, other mood disorders, ADHD, child and adolescent anxiety disorders such as OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder. I also work with adults on all of the above issues. I look forward to helping you!
(609) 644-2978 View (609) 644-2978
Photo of Gary C. Jean, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Gary C. Jean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Avenel, NJ 07001
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner currently practicing in New York and New Jersey. I earned my BSN from New Jersey City University, my MSN with a specialization in Psychiatry from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and a Certificate in Addiction Treatment from Yale University. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychoeducation to support and improve my patients' mental health. My clinical expertise spans a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, neurocognitive disorders, and substance use disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner currently practicing in New York and New Jersey. I earned my BSN from New Jersey City University, my MSN with a specialization in Psychiatry from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and a Certificate in Addiction Treatment from Yale University. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychoeducation to support and improve my patients' mental health. My clinical expertise spans a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, neurocognitive disorders, and substance use disorders.
(732) 724-0453 View (732) 724-0453

See more therapy options for 07008

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07008

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07008 who prioritize treating:

67% Anxiety
67% ADHD
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Sleep or Insomnia
67% Behavioral Issues
67% Medication Management
33% Depression

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07008 see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07008?

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.