Psychiatrists in 07020

Photo of Lashon Simpson, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lashon Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edgewater, NJ 07020
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
(201) 992-8075 View (201) 992-8075
Photo of Aykut Ozden, MD, Psychiatrist
Aykut Ozden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, NJ 07020
I am a triple-board-certified child-adolescent, adult, and addiction psychiatrist. I worked at Mt. Sinai St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in NYC as a director. I am an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Rowan University now. I do psychiatric diagnostic assessments, and medication management including ketamine, vivitrol, suboxone, sublocade, as well as outpatient detox. I do accept all ages and most conditions. Please note that I see patients in Edgewater NJ or virtually. I am out of network for all insurances but will provide an invoice for you to submit.
I am a triple-board-certified child-adolescent, adult, and addiction psychiatrist. I worked at Mt. Sinai St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in NYC as a director. I am an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Rowan University now. I do psychiatric diagnostic assessments, and medication management including ketamine, vivitrol, suboxone, sublocade, as well as outpatient detox. I do accept all ages and most conditions. Please note that I see patients in Edgewater NJ or virtually. I am out of network for all insurances but will provide an invoice for you to submit.
(201) 220-5868 View (201) 220-5868
Photo of Leena Rajagopal, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Leena Rajagopal
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, NJ 07020
Hi, I am a board certified general adult and forensic psychiatrist. I have experience in treating patients with mental illness in a variety of settings. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York and offer telepsychiatry at this time. During these stressful times, some of you may have developed new onset depression and anxiety, whereas some may experience worsening of older conditions. Whether you are experiencing new onset or worsening depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, interpersonal problems, or other serious symptoms; ultimately these prevent you from living your life to your fullest potential. I want to help you feel better.
Hi, I am a board certified general adult and forensic psychiatrist. I have experience in treating patients with mental illness in a variety of settings. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York and offer telepsychiatry at this time. During these stressful times, some of you may have developed new onset depression and anxiety, whereas some may experience worsening of older conditions. Whether you are experiencing new onset or worsening depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, interpersonal problems, or other serious symptoms; ultimately these prevent you from living your life to your fullest potential. I want to help you feel better.
(551) 313-9551 View (551) 313-9551
Photo of Maura Elisa Pedroso - Maura E Pedroso, MD LLC, MD , Psychiatrist
Maura E Pedroso, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Edgewater, NJ 07020
Please contact my office at 201-884-1005
Please contact my office at 201-884-1005
(551) 303-7751 View (551) 303-7751
New Jersey Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Edgewater, NJ 07020
At New Jersey Wellness Center we specialize in the treatment of Substance Use disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder. We are committed to treating the individual client and their families with caring, qualified professionals in the field of psychiatry, clinical alcohol and drug counseling, mental health, social work, education and recovery support. Our team of experts will address underlying causes of substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients toward a successful and lasting recovery.
At New Jersey Wellness Center we specialize in the treatment of Substance Use disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder. We are committed to treating the individual client and their families with caring, qualified professionals in the field of psychiatry, clinical alcohol and drug counseling, mental health, social work, education and recovery support. Our team of experts will address underlying causes of substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients toward a successful and lasting recovery.
(201) 399-3640 View (201) 399-3640

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Katie Wetherill, APN, RN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katie Wetherill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, RN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07102
I treat grade schooler and adolescent 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 grade schooler and adolescent 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!
(862) 972-3404 View (862) 972-3404
Photo of Emmanuel Sanchez - Alter Self Psychiatry LLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Alter Self Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Alter Self Psychiatry LLC, we follow a patient-centered, biopsychosocial model. We carefully assesses each patient's unique needs and concerns to create tailored treatment plans and accurate diagnoses. With a belief in the potential for positive change in every patient, we foster a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship. We are dedicated to helping individuals on their journey towards mental wellness, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and the expertise to guide you towards a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to embark on your path to mental well-being. (Website is under construction)
At Alter Self Psychiatry LLC, we follow a patient-centered, biopsychosocial model. We carefully assesses each patient's unique needs and concerns to create tailored treatment plans and accurate diagnoses. With a belief in the potential for positive change in every patient, we foster a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship. We are dedicated to helping individuals on their journey towards mental wellness, offering a range of evidence-based treatments and the expertise to guide you towards a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to embark on your path to mental well-being. (Website is under construction)
(862) 858-2612 View (862) 858-2612
Photo of Jacquelyn Zagone - BirchWood Health - Jacquelyn Zagone, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BirchWood Health - Jacquelyn Zagone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
(862) 356-6293 View (862) 356-6293
Photo of Oliver Moore, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oliver Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Online Only
I treat 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 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) 903-9038 View (201) 903-9038
Photo of Tamer Wassef - Care First Psychiatry & TMS Center, MD, Psychiatrist
Care First Psychiatry & TMS Center
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Welcome to Care First TMS Center: Specialized in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine, Treatment and Counseling. Welcome to the website of Dr. Tamer Wassef, The founder of Care First Medical Group, TMS Center. Dr. Wassef is a board-certified Psychiatrist offering safe, confidential and effective Adult Psychiatry, Addiction medicine and recovery management programs at his conveniently located office in New Brunswick, NJ.
Welcome to Care First TMS Center: Specialized in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine, Treatment and Counseling. Welcome to the website of Dr. Tamer Wassef, The founder of Care First Medical Group, TMS Center. Dr. Wassef is a board-certified Psychiatrist offering safe, confidential and effective Adult Psychiatry, Addiction medicine and recovery management programs at his conveniently located office in New Brunswick, NJ.
(848) 200-1699 View (848) 200-1699
Photo of Tina Marie James, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tina Marie James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my psychiatric clients. I believe in empowering individuals to take control of their mental health journey, and I am committed to helping them achieve their unique goals and aspirations. I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome obstacles, build resiliences, and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I believe in the importance of cultural sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based practices that acknowledge the complex interplay between mental and physical health and social determinants.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my psychiatric clients. I believe in empowering individuals to take control of their mental health journey, and I am committed to helping them achieve their unique goals and aspirations. I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome obstacles, build resiliences, and cultivate a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I believe in the importance of cultural sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based practices that acknowledge the complex interplay between mental and physical health and social determinants.
(973) 798-9221 View (973) 798-9221
Photo of Ngozi Beatrice Amadiegwu, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ngozi Beatrice Amadiegwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
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.
(908) 866-5178 View (908) 866-5178
Photo of Sharon Batista, MD, DFAPA, FACLP, FAWMA, Psychiatrist
Sharon Batista
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, FACLP, FAWMA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Sharon Batista, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist in private telepsychiatry practice. She works with patients suffering from anxiety,depression, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and OC-Related disorders, hoarding, perfectionism, body dysmorphia and eating disorders. Dr. Batista provides care across the lifespan including perinatal mental health consultation for pre-pregnancy planning, during pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. Dr. Batista's areas of clinical focus include physician mental health. Telehealth treatment available in NY, NJ, CT, CA, FL, IL, KS, OH, PA,TX and VA.
Dr. Sharon Batista, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist in private telepsychiatry practice. She works with patients suffering from anxiety,depression, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and OC-Related disorders, hoarding, perfectionism, body dysmorphia and eating disorders. Dr. Batista provides care across the lifespan including perinatal mental health consultation for pre-pregnancy planning, during pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. Dr. Batista's areas of clinical focus include physician mental health. Telehealth treatment available in NY, NJ, CT, CA, FL, IL, KS, OH, PA,TX and VA.
(347) 673-0599 View (347) 673-0599
Photo of Dyana Thompson - Evolution Medicine, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Evolution Medicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience working in the mental health field. I am certified in perinatal mental health. My approach incorporates the awareness of the important connection between mind and body, and I work holistically with my patients to provide medical solutions for complex emotional health issues. My therapeutic style is interactive, and patient centered, and I enjoy working with patients that are motivated for wellness. There is no “one size fits all” approach to healing and I tailor my approach to meet the needs of each individual patient.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience working in the mental health field. I am certified in perinatal mental health. My approach incorporates the awareness of the important connection between mind and body, and I work holistically with my patients to provide medical solutions for complex emotional health issues. My therapeutic style is interactive, and patient centered, and I enjoy working with patients that are motivated for wellness. There is no “one size fits all” approach to healing and I tailor my approach to meet the needs of each individual patient.
(973) 756-3733 View (973) 756-3733
Photo of Dr. Robert B. Marsh, DNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Robert B. Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
Dr. Marsh has been serving those suffering with mental health disorders, including substance abuse for more than 25 years. His course of treatment is holistic in nature, treating both the physical symptoms as well as the emotional struggles via psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention. He is a nationally board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. He is an addiction specialist and member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Suboxone and Vivitrol certified; 973-699-1006.
Dr. Marsh has been serving those suffering with mental health disorders, including substance abuse for more than 25 years. His course of treatment is holistic in nature, treating both the physical symptoms as well as the emotional struggles via psychopharmacological and psychotherapeutic intervention. He is a nationally board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. He is an addiction specialist and member of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Suboxone and Vivitrol certified; 973-699-1006.
(908) 224-5374 View (908) 224-5374
Photo of Lisandra Ramirez, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lisandra Ramirez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Lisandra and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Chronic Illness, Family/Relationship Issues, Stress Management and OCD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Lisandra and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Chronic Illness, Family/Relationship Issues, Stress Management and OCD. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(973) 564-1873 View (973) 564-1873
Photo of Dr. Suneeta Kumari, MD, MPH, CCDS, Psychiatrist
Dr. Suneeta Kumari
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, CCDS
Verified Verified
Iselin, NJ 08830
I am passionate about helping people with mental health challenges. I received a master's degree in public health from George Washington University and finished my residency at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in NJ. Currently working as an inpatient psychiatrist at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, Maryland. My experience spans a variety of fields in the healthcare industry, including public health, research, consulting and psychiatric medication management and therapy. Over the past several years, I have successfully managed patients of all ages with various psychiatric conditions, Depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
I am passionate about helping people with mental health challenges. I received a master's degree in public health from George Washington University and finished my residency at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in NJ. Currently working as an inpatient psychiatrist at LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, Maryland. My experience spans a variety of fields in the healthcare industry, including public health, research, consulting and psychiatric medication management and therapy. Over the past several years, I have successfully managed patients of all ages with various psychiatric conditions, Depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD.
(443) 870-5821 View (443) 870-5821
Photo of Jonathan Easton, MD, Psychiatrist
Jonathan Easton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been in private practice of psychiatry and psychotherapy since 1986 at my New York City office. Prior to the pandemic I also had an office in Morristown, New Jersey. I am currently working by Zoom video only.
I have been in private practice of psychiatry and psychotherapy since 1986 at my New York City office. Prior to the pandemic I also had an office in Morristown, New Jersey. I am currently working by Zoom video only.
(908) 258-6409 View (908) 258-6409
Photo of Joseph Gagnon Jr., CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, BS, RN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Gagnon Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN, BS, RN-BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07310
Joe Gagnon, owner of Psychiatric Edge, brings nearly 15 years of psychiatric experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, with expertise in ADHD, ASD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, and PANDAS. He integrates plant-based medicine, supplements, and genetic testing into his approach, offering clients alternative options. Joe presents nationally on complex psychiatric topics and holds certifications in addiction treatment (MAT) and clozapine prescribing. He also has extensive experience using LDN. Additionally, he has served as a clinical faculty instructor for 25 different universities.
Joe Gagnon, owner of Psychiatric Edge, brings nearly 15 years of psychiatric experience treating children, adolescents, and adults, with expertise in ADHD, ASD, Bipolar Disorder, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, and PANDAS. He integrates plant-based medicine, supplements, and genetic testing into his approach, offering clients alternative options. Joe presents nationally on complex psychiatric topics and holds certifications in addiction treatment (MAT) and clozapine prescribing. He also has extensive experience using LDN. Additionally, he has served as a clinical faculty instructor for 25 different universities.
(267) 209-6722 View (267) 209-6722
Photo of Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Linden, NJ 07036
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
(908) 895-6131 View (908) 895-6131

See more therapy options for 07020

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07020

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07020 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management

Average years in practice

21 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Oxford
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 07020 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07020?

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.