Psychiatrists in 07020

Photo of Aykut Ozden, Psychiatrist, MD
Aykut Ozden
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Mylene Alberto, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mylene Alberto
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Edgewater, NJ 07020
Choosing a psychiatric provider is personal. You want someone who listens carefully, takes the time to understand the whole picture, and treats you as a partner in your own care. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I offer medication management and supportive psychotherapy for adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, life transitions, and the everyday weight of stress.
Choosing a psychiatric provider is personal. You want someone who listens carefully, takes the time to understand the whole picture, and treats you as a partner in your own care. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I offer medication management and supportive psychotherapy for adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, life transitions, and the everyday weight of stress.
(551) 310-2036 View (551) 310-2036
New Jersey Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
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
Photo of Maura Elisa Pedroso - Maura E Pedroso, MD LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Maura E Pedroso, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Please contact my office at 201-884-1005
Please contact my office at 201-884-1005
(551) 303-7751 View (551) 303-7751
Photo of Leena Rajagopal, Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Leena Rajagopal
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Tamara Henry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Tamara Henry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello! I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner based in New York with specialized training from Stony Brook University. I work with individuals of all ages, providing comprehensive care to help them overcome ADHD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. My goal is to support my clients in returning to their normal daily routines with improved mental health and well-being. In addition, I help young adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
Hello! I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner based in New York with specialized training from Stony Brook University. I work with individuals of all ages, providing comprehensive care to help them overcome ADHD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. My goal is to support my clients in returning to their normal daily routines with improved mental health and well-being. In addition, I help young adults struggling with career stress and burnout become the best versions of themselves.
(551) 239-8637 View (551) 239-8637
Photo of Luis A Febus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Luis A Febus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My ideal client is a motivated adult who feels stuck despite trying their best. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, or insomnia—often feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, or emotionally drained. They want to feel like themselves again: calmer, clearer, and more in control. They value a practical, collaborative approach that focuses on symptom relief, day-to-day functioning, and sustainable progress.
My ideal client is a motivated adult who feels stuck despite trying their best. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, or insomnia—often feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, or emotionally drained. They want to feel like themselves again: calmer, clearer, and more in control. They value a practical, collaborative approach that focuses on symptom relief, day-to-day functioning, and sustainable progress.
(201) 740-5455 View (201) 740-5455

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Oluwatosin Olunuga - Maxicare Healthcare Consult LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, HERBAL
Maxicare Healthcare Consult LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, HERBAL
2 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Trauma changes us; life stressors can cause our lives to unravel, it is all part of the normal human experience. Dr Tosin places emphasis on humans as we are. While incorporating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, his passion encourages healing, and teaches coping skills. With years of experience in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Schizophrenia, Clinical Depression, PTSD, and Substance Abuse, Dr Tosin has served as a guide to many families in both inpatient and out patient settings.
Trauma changes us; life stressors can cause our lives to unravel, it is all part of the normal human experience. Dr Tosin places emphasis on humans as we are. While incorporating psychopharmacology and psychotherapy, his passion encourages healing, and teaches coping skills. With years of experience in Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Schizophrenia, Clinical Depression, PTSD, and Substance Abuse, Dr Tosin has served as a guide to many families in both inpatient and out patient settings.
(973) 381-2689 View (973) 381-2689
Photo of Rosamaria Verdadeiro - Family Psychiatry and Therapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Paramus, NJ 07652
RosaMaria Verdadiero is an experienced adult and pediatric nurse practitioner. She is bilingual in Spanish and Portuguese. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and childhood disorders, including ADHD, behavioral dysregulation, and autism. She’s been a school nurse for over a decade, and is she is fully versed in the day-to-day complex issues regarding children and teens. Rosa also has expertise in the subtleties of anxiety and depression amongst college students and young adults, a population that is often misunderstood.
RosaMaria Verdadiero is an experienced adult and pediatric nurse practitioner. She is bilingual in Spanish and Portuguese. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and childhood disorders, including ADHD, behavioral dysregulation, and autism. She’s been a school nurse for over a decade, and is she is fully versed in the day-to-day complex issues regarding children and teens. Rosa also has expertise in the subtleties of anxiety and depression amongst college students and young adults, a population that is often misunderstood.
(973) 846-9298 View (973) 846-9298
Photo of Dr. Rachael Brothers, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Rachael Brothers
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Dr. Rachael Brothers, DO earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Miami prior to completion of medical school in New York City at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine where she graduated in the top five percent of her class. She completed her psychiatric residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ, one of the country’s largest psychiatric hospitals. Dr. Brothers is passionate about a holistic approach to wellbeing while treating a spectrum of diagnoses.
Dr. Rachael Brothers, DO earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Miami prior to completion of medical school in New York City at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine where she graduated in the top five percent of her class. She completed her psychiatric residency training at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, NJ, one of the country’s largest psychiatric hospitals. Dr. Brothers is passionate about a holistic approach to wellbeing while treating a spectrum of diagnoses.
(973) 836-5127 View (973) 836-5127
Photo of Julie Jacob, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Julie Jacob
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
2 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
In-person & Virtual visits: I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practices, community settings, and through telehealth. I specialize in providing individualized psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults and the geriatric population.
In-person & Virtual visits: I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practices, community settings, and through telehealth. I specialize in providing individualized psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults and the geriatric population.
(908) 641-2459 View (908) 641-2459
Photo of Dr. Michael Olla, Psychiatrist, PhD
Dr. Michael Olla
Psychiatrist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Norwood, NJ 07648
Dr. Michael Ollas is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery in Norwood, NJ, specializing in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management. Dr. Ollas combines behavioral therapies with the latest in psychopharmacology to treat addiction and substance use disorders. He provides crisis intervention, long-term mental health care, and Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Sublocade, supporting patients on their journey to lasting sobriety.
Dr. Michael Ollas is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery in Norwood, NJ, specializing in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management. Dr. Ollas combines behavioral therapies with the latest in psychopharmacology to treat addiction and substance use disorders. He provides crisis intervention, long-term mental health care, and Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Sublocade, supporting patients on their journey to lasting sobriety.
(551) 365-6816 View (551) 365-6816
Photo of Sean X Luo, Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Sean X Luo
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Columbia-trained general and addiction psychiatrist and researcher. My practice focuses on delivering high-quality treatment to a small number of patients. I focus on complex substance use, co-morbid/dual diagnoses cases such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression, and behavioral addictions such as sex/gaming addiction. I conduct both talk therapy and use medications in my practice and work with both patients and their families. The goal is transformative change in behavior patterns to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
I am a Columbia-trained general and addiction psychiatrist and researcher. My practice focuses on delivering high-quality treatment to a small number of patients. I focus on complex substance use, co-morbid/dual diagnoses cases such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and depression, and behavioral addictions such as sex/gaming addiction. I conduct both talk therapy and use medications in my practice and work with both patients and their families. The goal is transformative change in behavior patterns to help patients achieve their highest level of functioning.
(718) 650-2189 View (718) 650-2189
Photo of Dr. Caroline Bjorkman - Mind Space Wellness , Psychiatrist, DO
Mind Space Wellness
Psychiatrist, DO
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Dr. Caroline Bjorkman, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC, provides expert psychiatry services at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Dr. Bjorkman completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, before receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York Institute of Technology. She completed her residency and is attending physician at the Mount Sinai Health System across New York City. Dr. Bjorkman accepts most insurance providers. If you have specific questions regarding your coverage, please contact for additional information.
Dr. Caroline Bjorkman, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC, provides expert psychiatry services at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Dr. Bjorkman completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, before receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York Institute of Technology. She completed her residency and is attending physician at the Mount Sinai Health System across New York City. Dr. Bjorkman accepts most insurance providers. If you have specific questions regarding your coverage, please contact for additional information.
(646) 970-1321 View (646) 970-1321
Photo of Dr. James Mueser, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Dr. James Mueser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Montclair, NJ 07042
Many of us feel like we are struggling under the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma, or a sense of being different. It can feel overwhelming like we are disconnected from others or lost in a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings. You might want relief from persistent sadness or overwhelming stress, or perhaps you're seeking a way to understand yourself better and live more authentically. Whatever you're going through, you want to feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more in control of your mental health journey. As a neurodiverse provider, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, and PTSD.
Many of us feel like we are struggling under the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma, or a sense of being different. It can feel overwhelming like we are disconnected from others or lost in a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings. You might want relief from persistent sadness or overwhelming stress, or perhaps you're seeking a way to understand yourself better and live more authentically. Whatever you're going through, you want to feel more grounded, more hopeful, and more in control of your mental health journey. As a neurodiverse provider, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, and PTSD.
(646) 759-9575 View (646) 759-9575
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Andrea Papa
Psychiatrist, DO
Cranford, NJ 07016
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(908) 364-5830 View (908) 364-5830
Photo of Jennings Mekoba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMNHBC, APRN
Jennings Mekoba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMNHBC, APRN
Newark, NJ 07102
Jennings is a compassionate, Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of specialized experience across diverse clinical settings. A graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he graduated with honors and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Jennings brings a unique dual perspective from both critical care medicine and behavioral health. He is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) candidate at Walden University.
Jennings is a compassionate, Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of specialized experience across diverse clinical settings. A graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he graduated with honors and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Jennings brings a unique dual perspective from both critical care medicine and behavioral health. He is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) candidate at Walden University.
(862) 263-2302 View (862) 263-2302
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Serves Area
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
(844) 959-1689 View (844) 959-1689
Photo of Alan Brown, Psychiatrist, MD
Alan Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Englewood, NJ 07631
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. I am a psychopharmacologist with expertise in the use of medications that restore your healthy mood and functioning. In addition, I have treated patients with a variety of psychotherapeutic (talk therapy) techniques include helping patients develop insight into the causes of how they feel and cognitive behavioral therapy which helps patients deal with emotional distress by evaluating negative patterns of thinking. I offer therapy in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. I offer daytime and evening hours.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. I am a psychopharmacologist with expertise in the use of medications that restore your healthy mood and functioning. In addition, I have treated patients with a variety of psychotherapeutic (talk therapy) techniques include helping patients develop insight into the causes of how they feel and cognitive behavioral therapy which helps patients deal with emotional distress by evaluating negative patterns of thinking. I offer therapy in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. I offer daytime and evening hours.
(201) 244-4561 View (201) 244-4561
Photo of Mary Nwosuocha, Psychiatrist, MD
Mary Nwosuocha
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Nwosuocha is a board-certified Psychiatrist in New York City who has a special focus in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Because of her training, she can provide specialized care for those seeking general psychiatry as well as reproductive psychiatry care. She is experienced working with the LGBTQ+ population, and is kink, sex work, and polyamory affirming. She is also passionate about working with people of color, especially immigrants or first or second generation Americans.
Dr. Nwosuocha is a board-certified Psychiatrist in New York City who has a special focus in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Because of her training, she can provide specialized care for those seeking general psychiatry as well as reproductive psychiatry care. She is experienced working with the LGBTQ+ population, and is kink, sex work, and polyamory affirming. She is also passionate about working with people of color, especially immigrants or first or second generation Americans.
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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% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Medication Management
71% ADHD
71% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield
80% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07020 see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% 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.