Psychiatrists in 07026
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.
I am a dedicated provider specializing in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I take a holistic approach to care, customizing treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual. My areas of specialty include management of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I am a dedicated provider specializing in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I take a holistic approach to care, customizing treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual. My areas of specialty include management of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Hi my name is Stella Nwachukwu , I am a proud Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For those with mental health disorders, medication management is often an important part of the recovery process when used in an effective way as part of the overall treatment. That is where I come in At Viewpoints Counseling Group, we understand that managing your mental health can be a complex journey.
Hi my name is Stella Nwachukwu , I am a proud Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. For those with mental health disorders, medication management is often an important part of the recovery process when used in an effective way as part of the overall treatment. That is where I come in At Viewpoints Counseling Group, we understand that managing your mental health can be a complex journey.
All adults, parents and caregivers have challenging moments in their lives. Children and teenagers also can struggle with their emotions or behaviors. These difficult moments can feel unmanageable, causing feelings of stress, worry, or sadness. This can make school or work feel overwhelming or impact eating, sleeping and concentration. Dr. Mailutha will work with you or your family to address these concerns. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication prescribing with warmth and care to adults, families, children and adolescents.
All adults, parents and caregivers have challenging moments in their lives. Children and teenagers also can struggle with their emotions or behaviors. These difficult moments can feel unmanageable, causing feelings of stress, worry, or sadness. This can make school or work feel overwhelming or impact eating, sleeping and concentration. Dr. Mailutha will work with you or your family to address these concerns. She provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and medication prescribing with warmth and care to adults, families, children and adolescents.
Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Adighije, or known to patients and colleagues alike as, Dr. Sim! With over 15 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer! Graduating Summa Cum Laude from Rutgers University with her Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science degrees in Nursing.
Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Adighije, or known to patients and colleagues alike as, Dr. Sim! With over 15 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer! Graduating Summa Cum Laude from Rutgers University with her Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science degrees in Nursing.
I am a general psychiatrist treating a wide array of psychiatric problems. I have experience with patients with mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders as well as ADHD. I also treat adolescents with these problems. I also have experience working with people with personality disorders. I work with some people psychotherapeutically, but I also perform diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacology consultation for people in therapy with other mental health professionals. I am also certified to treat opiate dependence with buprenorphine (Suboxone).
I am a general psychiatrist treating a wide array of psychiatric problems. I have experience with patients with mood, anxiety and psychotic disorders as well as ADHD. I also treat adolescents with these problems. I also have experience working with people with personality disorders. I work with some people psychotherapeutically, but I also perform diagnostic assessments and psychopharmacology consultation for people in therapy with other mental health professionals. I am also certified to treat opiate dependence with buprenorphine (Suboxone).
Hello, my name is Dianne White, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working on an inpatient psychiatric unit. Throughout my profession, I have worked as an RN, Family Nurse Practitioner, and currently as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have learned the importance of caring for a whole person’s well-being. Each of my patients is treated with specialized care, giving them the unique attention necessary for successful treatment. I take pride in providing my clients with the assistance they need to turn their outlook on life around for the better. To give hope to the ones who’ve felt hopeless.
Hello, my name is Dianne White, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working on an inpatient psychiatric unit. Throughout my profession, I have worked as an RN, Family Nurse Practitioner, and currently as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have learned the importance of caring for a whole person’s well-being. Each of my patients is treated with specialized care, giving them the unique attention necessary for successful treatment. I take pride in providing my clients with the assistance they need to turn their outlook on life around for the better. To give hope to the ones who’ve felt hopeless.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with 7 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.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner with 7 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.
Dr. Lehrhoff is a psychiatrist, a therapist, master life coach & Functional Medicine trained physician who believes in working collaboratively with patients. She recognizes that a client’s thoughts, feelings, and needs are essential to creating a unique healing plan together. Some may benefit from medication, others may prefer guidance on weening off medications and/or be assisted through life challenges in a nonjudgemental presence. With a goal to make each client feel seen, heard & understood, Dr. Lehrhoff ensures a safe space to move through difficulties. Dr. L is also a trained in supplements, and Sex & relationship therapy.
Dr. Lehrhoff is a psychiatrist, a therapist, master life coach & Functional Medicine trained physician who believes in working collaboratively with patients. She recognizes that a client’s thoughts, feelings, and needs are essential to creating a unique healing plan together. Some may benefit from medication, others may prefer guidance on weening off medications and/or be assisted through life challenges in a nonjudgemental presence. With a goal to make each client feel seen, heard & understood, Dr. Lehrhoff ensures a safe space to move through difficulties. Dr. L is also a trained in supplements, and Sex & relationship therapy.
Wellness Direct LLC (Dr. Winful)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PHMNP, APRNBC, DNP
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Linda Winful serves as a goal oriented Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Wellness Direct private practice office. Linda functions with over seven years of experience in mental health services using many modality of treatments and also specializes in substance abuse. Linda works to accommodate individual patient's schedules, such as weekends and late nights. She provides evaluation, treatment planning, pharmacologic management, and referrals as needed for patients. Linda, teaches Patient's and others about intended effects and potential adverse effects of treatment options.
Linda Winful serves as a goal oriented Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Wellness Direct private practice office. Linda functions with over seven years of experience in mental health services using many modality of treatments and also specializes in substance abuse. Linda works to accommodate individual patient's schedules, such as weekends and late nights. She provides evaluation, treatment planning, pharmacologic management, and referrals as needed for patients. Linda, teaches Patient's and others about intended effects and potential adverse effects of treatment options.
I have over 20 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, working across various settings. My journey began In Türkiye, my home country, where I was fully trained and practiced before I decided to continue my career in the US. I completed a postdoctoral training at Yale University, where I focused on patients with psychosis. Additionally, I worked in a geriatric psychiatric unit at Yale Psychiatric Hospital, gaining valuable experience with elderly patients suffering from mental illness and dementia. I completed my residency at Rutgers NJMS, which provided me a broad range of clinical experience.
I have over 20 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, working across various settings. My journey began In Türkiye, my home country, where I was fully trained and practiced before I decided to continue my career in the US. I completed a postdoctoral training at Yale University, where I focused on patients with psychosis. Additionally, I worked in a geriatric psychiatric unit at Yale Psychiatric Hospital, gaining valuable experience with elderly patients suffering from mental illness and dementia. I completed my residency at Rutgers NJMS, which provided me a broad range of clinical experience.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. My practice focuses on evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related concerns. I believe in a collaborative approach combining evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy, lifestyle interventions, and coordination of care. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered in their mental health journey.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. My practice focuses on evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related concerns. I believe in a collaborative approach combining evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy, lifestyle interventions, and coordination of care. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered in their mental health journey.
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
Hi, My name is Stella E. Okah, I'm a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board certified. I specialized ADHD, Addiction program/Detox, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, OCD, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, School Issues, Racism, Self Esteem, Self-Harming. Additionally, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older persons.
Hi, My name is Stella E. Okah, I'm a psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board certified. I specialized ADHD, Addiction program/Detox, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dissociative Disorders, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorders, OCD, Personality Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Suicidal Ideation, School Issues, Racism, Self Esteem, Self-Harming. Additionally, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older persons.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here! I support individuals across the lifespan, helping with anxiety, depression, stress, and creating healthier, more balanced lives. By working together, we’ll build resilience, develop coping skills, and shape a path that feels meaningful to you. My approach is centered on listening, validation, and empowerment. Through tailored, evidence-based care, I provide medication management, therapy, and personalized treatment plans designed to meet your unique needs.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here! I support individuals across the lifespan, helping with anxiety, depression, stress, and creating healthier, more balanced lives. By working together, we’ll build resilience, develop coping skills, and shape a path that feels meaningful to you. My approach is centered on listening, validation, and empowerment. Through tailored, evidence-based care, I provide medication management, therapy, and personalized treatment plans designed to meet your unique needs.
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America offers in-person visits in NJ and telehealth visits in more than 15 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD, and TMS and Spravato treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Call today to learn more.
Rediscover your happiness in a safe space! Tri America offers in-person visits in NJ and telehealth visits in more than 15 states. Services include individual & family counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, medication management, school testing for ADHD, and TMS and Spravato treatment for depression. Evening and weekend hours available. Call today to learn more.
Visit Holistic Health and Wellness Services to self-schedule at your convenience. We offer medication management for conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, trauma and PTSD, and sleep or insomnia issues, with brief therapy as needed. Please note: This is a telehealth-only practice. Private pay rates are $150 for follow-up visits and $275 for initial evaluations.
Visit Holistic Health and Wellness Services to self-schedule at your convenience. We offer medication management for conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, trauma and PTSD, and sleep or insomnia issues, with brief therapy as needed. Please note: This is a telehealth-only practice. Private pay rates are $150 for follow-up visits and $275 for initial evaluations.
My ideal clients are individuals who are looking for treatment and management that is evidence based, holistic and catered to their personal goals. Issues include depression, difficulties adjusting to life stressors, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD in both childhood and adulthood. My clients have the desire to be the best versions of themselves at their own pace, with the guidance of a licensed professional throughout their individual journeys. They want to journey through their respective lives with the best tools in their arsenal in an effort to comfortably get by in their day to day lives.
My ideal clients are individuals who are looking for treatment and management that is evidence based, holistic and catered to their personal goals. Issues include depression, difficulties adjusting to life stressors, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD in both childhood and adulthood. My clients have the desire to be the best versions of themselves at their own pace, with the guidance of a licensed professional throughout their individual journeys. They want to journey through their respective lives with the best tools in their arsenal in an effort to comfortably get by in their day to day lives.
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.
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
See more therapy options for 07026
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07026
< 10
Psychiatrists in 07026 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 100% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 100% | Coping Skills |
| 100% | Medication Management |
| 50% | Addiction |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 07026 see their clients
| 50% | In Person and Online | |
| 50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 50% | Female | |
| 50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07026?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.

