Psychiatrists in 07023

Photo of Kelly Perez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelly Perez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Welcome to MellowMinds Psychiatric Services LLC. I’m Kelly Perez, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and evidence-based care.
Welcome to MellowMinds Psychiatric Services LLC. I’m Kelly Perez, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and evidence-based care.
(908) 641-4948 View (908) 641-4948

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Sandip Buch - Skypiatrist, Psychiatrist, MD
Skypiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are a telepsychiatry practice with 12 psychiatrists ready to provide high-quality, convenient and personalized psychiatric care. At Skypiatrist, we commit to meeting your immediate needs without sacrificing your quality of care.
We are a telepsychiatry practice with 12 psychiatrists ready to provide high-quality, convenient and personalized psychiatric care. At Skypiatrist, we commit to meeting your immediate needs without sacrificing your quality of care.
(347) 696-4897 View (347) 696-4897
Photo of Nina Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Nina Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Patients often seek help with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In addition to addressing immediate symptoms, patients often need support in building coping mechanisms, resilience, and medication management. Many patients aim to improve their functional abilities, such as maintaining employment, managing relationships, and engaging in daily activities. My services include treatment planning tailored to your unique needs. I believe in working collaboratively—other professionals who who are part of your care network.
Patients often seek help with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In addition to addressing immediate symptoms, patients often need support in building coping mechanisms, resilience, and medication management. Many patients aim to improve their functional abilities, such as maintaining employment, managing relationships, and engaging in daily activities. My services include treatment planning tailored to your unique needs. I believe in working collaboratively—other professionals who who are part of your care network.
(201) 347-0389 View (201) 347-0389
Photo of Annette Allegra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Annette Allegra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Randolph, NJ 07869
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
(862) 206-5391 View (862) 206-5391
Photo of Olga (Golda) Ryabinsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olga (Golda) Ryabinsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcome to my women-only practice, where compassionate care meets specialized expertise. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to women's mental health, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated, educated, and thoughtful about their treatment goals and outcomes.
Welcome to my women-only practice, where compassionate care meets specialized expertise. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to women's mental health, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated, educated, and thoughtful about their treatment goals and outcomes.
(848) 356-4606 View (848) 356-4606
Photo of Divya Patel, Psychiatrist, MD
Divya Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
As a Child and Adult psychiatrist I treat most conditions, offering psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and parent guidance. Parents of children struggling with anxiety, school avoidance, depression, impulsivity, or focus issues could hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of how to help their child navigate these difficulties and what tools exist to help support the child and the family system including therapeutic strategies and medications.
As a Child and Adult psychiatrist I treat most conditions, offering psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and parent guidance. Parents of children struggling with anxiety, school avoidance, depression, impulsivity, or focus issues could hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of how to help their child navigate these difficulties and what tools exist to help support the child and the family system including therapeutic strategies and medications.
(551) 299-0419 View (551) 299-0419
Photo of Maura Elisa Pedroso - Maura E Pedroso, MD LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Maura E Pedroso, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Union City, NJ 07087
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 Samuel Okechukwu - My Psych Provider., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
My Psych Provider.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Rockaway, NJ 07866
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.
Dr. Samuel Okechukwu, DNP, PMHNP-BC, is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of My Psych Provider LLC. With over a decade of experience in acute care and psychiatry, he combines strong clinical skills with a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. Dr. Okechukwu uses a personalized, evidence-based approach to deliver compassionate care, recognizing that every patient has a unique story. His goal is to enhance quality of life by providing comprehensive, high-quality mental health services.
(201) 594-6782 View (201) 594-6782
Photo of Olubunmi Adetule, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olubunmi Adetule
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Springfield, NJ 07081
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, has a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults) to clients with diverse mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD treatment and management, to improve their overall conditions. I am a skilled and experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule, DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC, has a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults) to clients with diverse mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, and ADHD treatment and management, to improve their overall conditions. I am a skilled and experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.
(908) 739-6426 View (908) 739-6426
Photo of Valerie DeGirolamo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, APN, RN
Valerie DeGirolamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, APN, RN
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Tree of Life Counseling Center. I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career.
I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Tree of Life Counseling Center. I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career.
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
Photo of Henrietta Udeh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP
Henrietta Udeh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CSN-NJ, PMHNP
Princeton, NJ 08540
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
My ideal client presents with anxiety; she has been experiencing a lot of panic attacks. She has been to the ER over three times in the past two months, where they ruled out cardiac problems. They always give her benzodiazepine and follow up with a psychiatrist. She does not want to be on medications, so she tried psychotherapy. She was then referred by her therapist. Her goal is to stay on medication for a short time. She prefers to use natural remedies. She is very fearful of science and the long-term effects of medications.
(609) 745-6779 View (609) 745-6779
Photo of Shavar Chase, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Shavar Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Dr. Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I founded my practice to specialize in treating the family including children, adolescents, adults and older adults with or who believe they may have difficulty with Psychiatric and Mental Health challenges. I have practiced as a Registered Nurse in an array of specialties for over 34 years. I also have specialized in Psychiatric, Mental Health and Addictions treatment for the past 18 years. As a solution focused Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner, it's my goal to assist you in reducing symptoms that impact your ability to function at home, at work, at school or at play.
Dr. Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I founded my practice to specialize in treating the family including children, adolescents, adults and older adults with or who believe they may have difficulty with Psychiatric and Mental Health challenges. I have practiced as a Registered Nurse in an array of specialties for over 34 years. I also have specialized in Psychiatric, Mental Health and Addictions treatment for the past 18 years. As a solution focused Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner, it's my goal to assist you in reducing symptoms that impact your ability to function at home, at work, at school or at play.
(908) 224-3649 View (908) 224-3649
Photo of Anees Benferhat, Psychiatrist, MD
Anees Benferhat
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
*Video Sessions Available* I welcome you as you are. You may be seeking to shift a pattern of thinking or behavior, to heal trauma from your past, or to just stop feeling so lousy. We will partner together to understand your strengths, stuck points, and goals, and we will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. We will help you create the life that you want and deserve, one step at a time, at your pace. You may see me for psychotherapy, medications, or both. I work with all adults 18 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, lack of fulfillment, trauma, creativity/performance challenges, and spiritual & cultural issues.
*Video Sessions Available* I welcome you as you are. You may be seeking to shift a pattern of thinking or behavior, to heal trauma from your past, or to just stop feeling so lousy. We will partner together to understand your strengths, stuck points, and goals, and we will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. We will help you create the life that you want and deserve, one step at a time, at your pace. You may see me for psychotherapy, medications, or both. I work with all adults 18 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, lack of fulfillment, trauma, creativity/performance challenges, and spiritual & cultural issues.
(914) 996-4161 View (914) 996-4161
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Princeton, NJ 08540
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(848) 345-5919 View (848) 345-5919
Photo of Yuliya Albu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Yuliya Albu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or stuck due to aging, chronic illness, depression, or life transitions, you're not alone—and support is available. I specialize in helping adults and older adults navigate emotional and cognitive challenges with compassion and practical tools. Whether you're seeking peace of mind, improved communication, or support for a loved one, I'm here to guide you with empathy and a plan that fits your life.
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or stuck due to aging, chronic illness, depression, or life transitions, you're not alone—and support is available. I specialize in helping adults and older adults navigate emotional and cognitive challenges with compassion and practical tools. Whether you're seeking peace of mind, improved communication, or support for a loved one, I'm here to guide you with empathy and a plan that fits your life.
(609) 354-5279 View (609) 354-5279
Photo of Dr. Intisar Ibrahim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Dr. Intisar Ibrahim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Maywood, NJ 07607
My ideal client may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. They often feel stuck, emotionally drained, or unsure how to move forward despite their efforts. They are seeking a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, identify the root causes of their distress, and develop healthier coping strategies. Their goal is healing, emotional growth, and regaining a sense of control, so they can live a fulfilling, balanced life free from the weight of past struggles.
My ideal client may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. They often feel stuck, emotionally drained, or unsure how to move forward despite their efforts. They are seeking a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, identify the root causes of their distress, and develop healthier coping strategies. Their goal is healing, emotional growth, and regaining a sense of control, so they can live a fulfilling, balanced life free from the weight of past struggles.
(201) 379-6209 View (201) 379-6209
Photo of Timothy Ssewagaba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Timothy Ssewagaba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Dr. Timothy Ssewagaba is Doctoral prepared ,Double Board certified as a psychiatric and Family Nurse practitioner. The weight of mental health can impact day to day functionality. Left untreated it could be debilitating. Don't struggle alone. I can help
Dr. Timothy Ssewagaba is Doctoral prepared ,Double Board certified as a psychiatric and Family Nurse practitioner. The weight of mental health can impact day to day functionality. Left untreated it could be debilitating. Don't struggle alone. I can help
(908) 219-6950 View (908) 219-6950
Photo of Dr. Michael Chung, Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
Dr. Michael Chung
Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Since I was 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist. I was enthralled by how humans were influenced by emotions and wanted to better understand that within myself and others. I am a board-certified NYU-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, who uses a holistic approach to carefully understand an individual's needs. I use a mix of psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine to alleviate symptoms. My hope is that you will feel better each time we meet. I have two office locations. Both are located conveniently near major transit sites (e.g. Penn Station and Grand Central).
Since I was 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist. I was enthralled by how humans were influenced by emotions and wanted to better understand that within myself and others. I am a board-certified NYU-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, who uses a holistic approach to carefully understand an individual's needs. I use a mix of psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine to alleviate symptoms. My hope is that you will feel better each time we meet. I have two office locations. Both are located conveniently near major transit sites (e.g. Penn Station and Grand Central).
View
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Castaneda-Ardizzone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, RN
Dr. Jennifer Castaneda-Ardizzone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, RN
7 Endorsed
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Are you struggling with anxiety, feeling down, focus, PTSD, bipolar, anger, or mood swings to the point that it's affecting your self-esteem and/or your relationships? Through medication management & therapy I help people start feeling like themselves again. I have a holistic approach that takes your lifestyle as integral part of healing. I'm Dr. Jen Ardizzone Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide my clients with thoughtful, carefully considered use of prescription medications and/or other modalities that will help get to the root of your symptoms.
Are you struggling with anxiety, feeling down, focus, PTSD, bipolar, anger, or mood swings to the point that it's affecting your self-esteem and/or your relationships? Through medication management & therapy I help people start feeling like themselves again. I have a holistic approach that takes your lifestyle as integral part of healing. I'm Dr. Jen Ardizzone Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide my clients with thoughtful, carefully considered use of prescription medications and/or other modalities that will help get to the root of your symptoms.
(862) 358-4759 View (862) 358-4759
Photo of Solande Destin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, M, H, N, P
Solande Destin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, M, H, N, P
Clifton, NJ 07013
Hello! I’m Solande Destin, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about helping individuals navigate mental health challenges with extensive training and experience in medication management and psychotherapy. My Approach: I believe in a collaborative, client-centered approach to care. We will develop a treatment plan that suits your unique needs, values, and goals during our sessions. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable and empowered to explore your mental health journey. Whether you’re seeking medication management, therapy, or a com
Hello! I’m Solande Destin, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about helping individuals navigate mental health challenges with extensive training and experience in medication management and psychotherapy. My Approach: I believe in a collaborative, client-centered approach to care. We will develop a treatment plan that suits your unique needs, values, and goals during our sessions. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable and empowered to explore your mental health journey. Whether you’re seeking medication management, therapy, or a com
(973) 370-8802 View (973) 370-8802

See more therapy options for 07023

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07023

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07023 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Eating Disorders
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Grief

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% AmeriHealth
100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07023 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07023?

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.