Psychiatrists in 07013
Are you navigating POST-PARTUM challenges, coping with a CANCER diagnosis, or managing psychiatric symptoms alongside MEDICAL conditions or TBI? I’m Dr. Magdalena Spariosu, with expertise in general psychiatry, brain injury, psychosomatic, and addiction medicine, I provide compassionate, personalized care that nurtures both your mental and physical well-being. I truly listen to your story and create tailored plans using medication, therapy, and lifestyle strategies. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities for lasting growth, balance, and hope.
Are you navigating POST-PARTUM challenges, coping with a CANCER diagnosis, or managing psychiatric symptoms alongside MEDICAL conditions or TBI? I’m Dr. Magdalena Spariosu, with expertise in general psychiatry, brain injury, psychosomatic, and addiction medicine, I provide compassionate, personalized care that nurtures both your mental and physical well-being. I truly listen to your story and create tailored plans using medication, therapy, and lifestyle strategies. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities for lasting growth, balance, and hope.
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
I am a truly caring, board certified psychiatrist, with extensive knowledge and experience in psychopharmacology. In order to bring peacefulness of mind and soul you desire and to ease your symptoms back to manageable levels, I believe it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and also the best treatments. I work with my clients to help them develop real comprehensive understanding using different approaches. I am experienced in several areas, including fatigue, pain syndrome, and insomnia, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictive behaviors of gambling, eating, alcohol, opiates, and other substances;
I am a truly caring, board certified psychiatrist, with extensive knowledge and experience in psychopharmacology. In order to bring peacefulness of mind and soul you desire and to ease your symptoms back to manageable levels, I believe it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and also the best treatments. I work with my clients to help them develop real comprehensive understanding using different approaches. I am experienced in several areas, including fatigue, pain syndrome, and insomnia, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictive behaviors of gambling, eating, alcohol, opiates, and other substances;
My ideal client is someone who may be feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected—whether due to anxiety, depression, trauma, mood instability, or the stress of navigating life’s challenges. They might be struggling to manage their emotions, maintain relationships, or find meaning in their daily life. Often, they’ve tried to cope on their own for a long time and are now ready to seek support that is respectful, affirming, and collaborative. My ideal client is someone who may be feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected whether due to anxiety, depression, trauma, mood instability, or the stress of navigating life
My ideal client is someone who may be feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected—whether due to anxiety, depression, trauma, mood instability, or the stress of navigating life’s challenges. They might be struggling to manage their emotions, maintain relationships, or find meaning in their daily life. Often, they’ve tried to cope on their own for a long time and are now ready to seek support that is respectful, affirming, and collaborative. My ideal client is someone who may be feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected whether due to anxiety, depression, trauma, mood instability, or the stress of navigating life
Diane DeCarolis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
With more than 30 years of experience in the Mental Health field, I began to practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner after graduating from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2013. My goal as a mental health provider is to help patients to alleviate their symptoms and to reach their highest potential in all aspects of their lives.
With more than 30 years of experience in the Mental Health field, I began to practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner after graduating from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2013. My goal as a mental health provider is to help patients to alleviate their symptoms and to reach their highest potential in all aspects of their lives.
I strive to deliver specialized, compassionate, high-value care to families and their loved ones. Many of my patients (and parents) experience burnout, anxiety, or depression. I provide flexible care, including telepsychiatry and in person options. Scheduling availability after work hours and Saturdays.
I strive to deliver specialized, compassionate, high-value care to families and their loved ones. Many of my patients (and parents) experience burnout, anxiety, or depression. I provide flexible care, including telepsychiatry and in person options. Scheduling availability after work hours and Saturdays.
I'm a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in northern NJ. I am eager to work together in reviewing concerns and obstacles as a team to help you feel like your best self. I offer therapy-focused care and do not prescribe medications.
I see clients of various ages across the lifespan and have about 11 years of experience working with children and adolescents. I am very passionate about providing LGBTQ+ affirming, trauma-informed psychotherapy. I implement high quality evidence-based care and believe in a holistic approach, always honoring patient autonomy. You are in control, and I am there as a gentle guide along the way.
I'm a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in northern NJ. I am eager to work together in reviewing concerns and obstacles as a team to help you feel like your best self. I offer therapy-focused care and do not prescribe medications.
I see clients of various ages across the lifespan and have about 11 years of experience working with children and adolescents. I am very passionate about providing LGBTQ+ affirming, trauma-informed psychotherapy. I implement high quality evidence-based care and believe in a holistic approach, always honoring patient autonomy. You are in control, and I am there as a gentle guide along the way.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
My name is Raquel Martinez. I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. My main goal is to provide the highest standard and quality of care with respect and dignity to those struggling with their mental health.
My name is Raquel Martinez. I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. My main goal is to provide the highest standard and quality of care with respect and dignity to those struggling with their mental health.
Here at the Venn Center, we offer patients a unique therapeutic experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments, as well as provide both individual and group psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I also offer pharmacotherapy and medication management when appropriate. That being said, 25% of my patients are not on any medication since I employ non-medicinal interventions that help remediate psychiatric symptoms whenever possible. Offering these complementary services allows the clients I work with to feel empowered in their desire for change toward a healthier way of being.
Here at the Venn Center, we offer patients a unique therapeutic experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments, as well as provide both individual and group psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I also offer pharmacotherapy and medication management when appropriate. That being said, 25% of my patients are not on any medication since I employ non-medicinal interventions that help remediate psychiatric symptoms whenever possible. Offering these complementary services allows the clients I work with to feel empowered in their desire for change toward a healthier way of being.
Claudine Destine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, MSN, BSN, RN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello and welcome! I am a Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP) based in New Jersey. I received my Masters from William Paterson University. I am also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I have 8 years of experience providing primary care for individuals with medical and psychiatric illnesses. I use holistic and evidence-based approach to help individuals achieve their best lives.
Hello and welcome! I am a Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner(PMHNP) based in New Jersey. I received my Masters from William Paterson University. I am also a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP). I have 8 years of experience providing primary care for individuals with medical and psychiatric illnesses. I use holistic and evidence-based approach to help individuals achieve their best lives.
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.
I'm a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist trained at the University of Michigan. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, to name a few. By nature, I'm a warm, empathetic, and compassionate person who can often identify gaps in maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and guide others towards better outcomes.
I'm a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist trained at the University of Michigan. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, to name a few. By nature, I'm a warm, empathetic, and compassionate person who can often identify gaps in maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and guide others towards better outcomes.
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
I treat adults with all mental health issue including depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and others. I do so with empathy and listening to the needs and concerns of my patients. I specialize in perinatal/reproductive psychiatry which is the care of women and families trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or up to two years postpartum. With 15 years of experience, I am well-equipped to treat all mental health conditions.
I treat adults with all mental health issue including depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and others. I do so with empathy and listening to the needs and concerns of my patients. I specialize in perinatal/reproductive psychiatry which is the care of women and families trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or up to two years postpartum. With 15 years of experience, I am well-equipped to treat all mental health conditions.
Advanced Professional Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Our experienced and compassionate professionals put our clients and their mental health care needs first. At Advanced Professional Healthcare, we understand that every client is special and has a different need. We customize our treatment to suit the healthcare needs of our clients in a caring, respectful and confidential environment. We provide comprehensive assessment to assist with the right diagnosis and treatment for you and your family. We discuss your diagnosis with you and offer you treatment choices with medication management, therapy or combination to support your mental health care goals and maximize your recovery.
Our experienced and compassionate professionals put our clients and their mental health care needs first. At Advanced Professional Healthcare, we understand that every client is special and has a different need. We customize our treatment to suit the healthcare needs of our clients in a caring, respectful and confidential environment. We provide comprehensive assessment to assist with the right diagnosis and treatment for you and your family. We discuss your diagnosis with you and offer you treatment choices with medication management, therapy or combination to support your mental health care goals and maximize your recovery.
Life transitions, hormonal changes, and major milestones, such as pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or menopause, can deeply affect emotional well-being. If you’re feeling anxious, down, or simply “not like yourself,” you’re not alone. Effective, compassionate support is available.
I’m Dr. Yokarla Veras, a board-certified psychiatrist with advanced fellowship training in Women’s and Reproductive Mental Health. I also serve as an Instructor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University. My work focuses on helping women and adults navigate depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, and mood changes related to pregnancy or menopause.
Life transitions, hormonal changes, and major milestones, such as pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or menopause, can deeply affect emotional well-being. If you’re feeling anxious, down, or simply “not like yourself,” you’re not alone. Effective, compassionate support is available.
I’m Dr. Yokarla Veras, a board-certified psychiatrist with advanced fellowship training in Women’s and Reproductive Mental Health. I also serve as an Instructor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University. My work focuses on helping women and adults navigate depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, and mood changes related to pregnancy or menopause.
Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in different directions, unable to be happy? Are you struggling to keep up with your daily activities, relationship, work, and health? Is it hard to be good to yourself and breathe in and out? I help high stressed manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what works and what is not working to get you in balance. We'll use an evidence-based therapeutic approach, including psychotropic medications, to address your needs, helping you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in different directions, unable to be happy? Are you struggling to keep up with your daily activities, relationship, work, and health? Is it hard to be good to yourself and breathe in and out? I help high stressed manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what works and what is not working to get you in balance. We'll use an evidence-based therapeutic approach, including psychotropic medications, to address your needs, helping you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or struggling to find peace, you're not alone, & not without support. I’m a board-certified PMHNP with over 10 years of experience helping individuals regain control of their mental health by building resilience and purpose.
I provide comprehensive psych evaluations, accurate diagnoses & thoughtful medication management tailored to your unique needs. If you’re navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or substance use concerns, a collaborative approach blending clinical expertise and compassion will help.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or struggling to find peace, you're not alone, & not without support. I’m a board-certified PMHNP with over 10 years of experience helping individuals regain control of their mental health by building resilience and purpose.
I provide comprehensive psych evaluations, accurate diagnoses & thoughtful medication management tailored to your unique needs. If you’re navigating depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or substance use concerns, a collaborative approach blending clinical expertise and compassion will help.
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
As a UPenn-trained psychiatrist, I work with you to craft a personalized treatment strategy, which may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. My commitment is to establish a lasting, trusted partnership with you aimed at enriching your overall well-being. Together, we collaborate to create a plan tailored to meet your unique needs and circumstances.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions. I have over 23 years of Psychiatric experience in my career, and I have earned the ability to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental and psychological issues in all life span.
I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-Board certified, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions. I have over 23 years of Psychiatric experience in my career, and I have earned the ability to diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental and psychological issues in all life span.
See more therapy options for 07013
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07013
< 10
Psychiatrists in 07013 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 86% | Grief |
| 86% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 86% | Stress |
| 71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield |
| 80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 07013 see their clients
| 71% | In Person and Online | |
| 29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 50% | Female | |
| 50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07013?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


