Psychiatrists in 07032
Imagine you’re navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, or the weight of past traumas—and you’re longing for more than quick fixes. I am that partner who truly hears your story, recognizes your strengths, and helps you clarify the goals that matter most to you.
As a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry and Adult Medicine, I have over 11 years of experience in diverse practice settings.
Integrating evidence-based medication management with psychoeducation and lifestyle strategies yields optimal outcomes.
I offer psychiatric evaluations and tailored care via telehealth in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Imagine you’re navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, or the weight of past traumas—and you’re longing for more than quick fixes. I am that partner who truly hears your story, recognizes your strengths, and helps you clarify the goals that matter most to you.
As a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry and Adult Medicine, I have over 11 years of experience in diverse practice settings.
Integrating evidence-based medication management with psychoeducation and lifestyle strategies yields optimal outcomes.
I offer psychiatric evaluations and tailored care via telehealth in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Please email me to schedule an appointment for faster response.
Accepting new patients who are 18 years and older! Specialties: Women's Health, Bipolar, ADHD, stress management, depression treatment and eating disorder. With a deep passion for mental health, I am dedicated to help my patients achieve their optimal well-being. I believe that psychiatric care should be affordable, and evidence based. Practicing since 2016, I offer both in person and telehealth visits to accommodate your needs and goals. I am convinced in the strong connection between mind and body.
Please email me to schedule an appointment for faster response.
Accepting new patients who are 18 years and older! Specialties: Women's Health, Bipolar, ADHD, stress management, depression treatment and eating disorder. With a deep passion for mental health, I am dedicated to help my patients achieve their optimal well-being. I believe that psychiatric care should be affordable, and evidence based. Practicing since 2016, I offer both in person and telehealth visits to accommodate your needs and goals. I am convinced in the strong connection between mind and body.
Are you experiencing persistent feelings of being overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck or a sense of not feeling like yourself? When anxiety or depression linger, they can affect your energy and relationships, making everyday life feel harder. You don’t have to go through this alone. I take a holistic, collaborative approach to care—working with you to understand the causes of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your overall well-being.
Are you experiencing persistent feelings of being overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck or a sense of not feeling like yourself? When anxiety or depression linger, they can affect your energy and relationships, making everyday life feel harder. You don’t have to go through this alone. I take a holistic, collaborative approach to care—working with you to understand the causes of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your overall well-being.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorder, let Ofmeme Psychiatric Care provide you with services that are specific to your needs. Dr. Udofia offers comprehensive assessment, medication management and a range of treatment opportunities aimed at restoring patients back to optimal health. At Ofmeme Psychiatric Care, we also provide psychiatric evaluation for bariatric surgery.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorder, let Ofmeme Psychiatric Care provide you with services that are specific to your needs. Dr. Udofia offers comprehensive assessment, medication management and a range of treatment opportunities aimed at restoring patients back to optimal health. At Ofmeme Psychiatric Care, we also provide psychiatric evaluation for bariatric surgery.
I'm a Portuguese and Spanish speaking Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Emerald Psych LLC, providing medication management and therapy to adults across all of New Jersey via secure telehealth — evenings and weekends available. Whether you're in Newark, Jersey City, the Shore, or anywhere in the state, I can see you from home. I specialize in helping adults manage anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, mood disorders, and the stress of life transitions. I also provide LGBTQ+ affirming care and understand the unique pressures of navigating different cultures, languages, and identities.
I'm a Portuguese and Spanish speaking Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Emerald Psych LLC, providing medication management and therapy to adults across all of New Jersey via secure telehealth — evenings and weekends available. Whether you're in Newark, Jersey City, the Shore, or anywhere in the state, I can see you from home. I specialize in helping adults manage anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, mood disorders, and the stress of life transitions. I also provide LGBTQ+ affirming care and understand the unique pressures of navigating different cultures, languages, and identities.
They want a realistic path to recovery — one that’s not overwhelming or out of reach. They want to be treated with dignity, supported by a team that understands recovery is a process, not perfection.
The $25 Recovery Program meets them where they are — offering affordable, professional, medication-assisted treatment that gives them the stability and confidence to reclaim their life.
They want a realistic path to recovery — one that’s not overwhelming or out of reach. They want to be treated with dignity, supported by a team that understands recovery is a process, not perfection.
The $25 Recovery Program meets them where they are — offering affordable, professional, medication-assisted treatment that gives them the stability and confidence to reclaim their life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and the founder of Jumirean Mental Health Group. As a Christian and an immigrant, my journey has deeply shaped the way I approach mental health care. I understand the resilience it takes to overcome adversity, navigate life transitions, and pursue healing while balancing cultural, personal, and spiritual values. My practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and emotional distress.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and the founder of Jumirean Mental Health Group. As a Christian and an immigrant, my journey has deeply shaped the way I approach mental health care. I understand the resilience it takes to overcome adversity, navigate life transitions, and pursue healing while balancing cultural, personal, and spiritual values. My practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, and emotional distress.
Dr. Olubunmi Adetule DNP, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across-the-lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors) to clients with diverse mental health needs including substance abuse treatment and management, with the aim of improving their overall state of affairs. I am compassionate and devoted to my patients, I am a skilled and an 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 with a rich background in patient assessment, clinical diagnoses, and treatment plan formulation. I provide culturally competent care across-the-lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, couples, seniors) to clients with diverse mental health needs including substance abuse treatment and management, with the aim of improving their overall state of affairs. I am compassionate and devoted to my patients, I am a skilled and an experienced healthcare provider who will evaluate and manage your case with the utmost care and high regard for confidentiality standards.
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.
Accepting New Patients NOW! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Military Veteran at Solar Behavioral Health, providing medication management with psychotherapy for individuals ages four and older. I offer in-person appointments in Annandale and Phillipsburg, as well as telehealth services across New Jersey, ensuring convenient access to quality, compassionate mental health care. I am also available after hours to accommodate busy schedules. My areas of focus include ADHD, behavioral challenges, mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, sleep concerns, and women’s issues.
Accepting New Patients NOW! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Military Veteran at Solar Behavioral Health, providing medication management with psychotherapy for individuals ages four and older. I offer in-person appointments in Annandale and Phillipsburg, as well as telehealth services across New Jersey, ensuring convenient access to quality, compassionate mental health care. I am also available after hours to accommodate busy schedules. My areas of focus include ADHD, behavioral challenges, mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, sleep concerns, and women’s issues.
I work with patients seeking relief from the distress of emotional and biological illness that is impairing their function in life. I have thirty years experience trying to understand the unique factors that describe each individual's circumstances and seeking to find practical solutions for his or her areas of concern. I received my M.D. from the University of Texas at San Antonio Medical School, and completed residency training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. I supervised and taught residents at Mount Sinai before relocating my practice to New Jersey in 2001.
I work with patients seeking relief from the distress of emotional and biological illness that is impairing their function in life. I have thirty years experience trying to understand the unique factors that describe each individual's circumstances and seeking to find practical solutions for his or her areas of concern. I received my M.D. from the University of Texas at San Antonio Medical School, and completed residency training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. I supervised and taught residents at Mount Sinai before relocating my practice to New Jersey in 2001.
Brie Benaquista at Montclair Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
When considering medication, teens and adults need a clinician that makes them feel comfortable and heard. So many wrestle with a myriad of social and emotional dynamics in the context of their biology. They need a clinician who understands this complexity with great compassion and empathy and who will help them consider the possibility of taking medication thoughtfully and holistically.
When considering medication, teens and adults need a clinician that makes them feel comfortable and heard. So many wrestle with a myriad of social and emotional dynamics in the context of their biology. They need a clinician who understands this complexity with great compassion and empathy and who will help them consider the possibility of taking medication thoughtfully and holistically.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
I am a member of the American Psychiatric Association, NJ Psychiatric Asso. and Tri County Psychiatric Asso. I am Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. I have published articles and book chapters in the fields of psychiatric diagnosis, treatment of mood disorders and Seasonal Affective Disorder. I was chief of Adult Psychiatry and Associate Medical Director at Fair Oaks Hospital, where I treated the most ill patients. I have been in outpatient private practice since 1992.
I am a member of the American Psychiatric Association, NJ Psychiatric Asso. and Tri County Psychiatric Asso. I am Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. I have published articles and book chapters in the fields of psychiatric diagnosis, treatment of mood disorders and Seasonal Affective Disorder. I was chief of Adult Psychiatry and Associate Medical Director at Fair Oaks Hospital, where I treated the most ill patients. I have been in outpatient private practice since 1992.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nearly 20 years of nursing experience specializing in behavioral health, substance use disorder and process addiction treatment, and trauma-informed care. I completed my MSN at Monmouth University and my RN-BSN at Thomas Edison State University, building a strong foundation for the care I provide today. I am licensed as an Advanced Practice Nurse in New Jersey and as a Registered Nurse in both New York and New Jersey. At Hope & Healing, I provide comprehensive mental health care and wellness services including psychiatric evaluation and medication management.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nearly 20 years of nursing experience specializing in behavioral health, substance use disorder and process addiction treatment, and trauma-informed care. I completed my MSN at Monmouth University and my RN-BSN at Thomas Edison State University, building a strong foundation for the care I provide today. I am licensed as an Advanced Practice Nurse in New Jersey and as a Registered Nurse in both New York and New Jersey. At Hope & Healing, I provide comprehensive mental health care and wellness services including psychiatric evaluation and medication management.
I specialize in working with high-functioning adults who appear “fine” on the outside but privately struggle with anxiety, burnout, mood instability, and persistent overthinking. Many of my clients are professionals who are used to managing everything on their own, yet feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from themselves.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide thoughtful and precise medication management combined with supportive conversation and practical strategies. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and focused on helping you regain stability, clarity, and a sense of control over your life.
I specialize in working with high-functioning adults who appear “fine” on the outside but privately struggle with anxiety, burnout, mood instability, and persistent overthinking. Many of my clients are professionals who are used to managing everything on their own, yet feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from themselves.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide thoughtful and precise medication management combined with supportive conversation and practical strategies. My approach is collaborative, respectful, and focused on helping you regain stability, clarity, and a sense of control over your life.
Dr. Simbiat Adighije (Dr. Sim) has 15+ years of experience in treating adults with PTSD, depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, ADHD and weight management. She practices as a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health NP with a wealth of education & experience. Dr. Sim graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rutgers University with Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees in Nursing. She further received a Medical Degree and PhD in Public Health from University of Science, Arts and Technology, Montserrat (Florida campus). Dr Sim believes in a personalized treatment plan for each patient be it medication therapy and/or psychotherapy.
Dr. Simbiat Adighije (Dr. Sim) has 15+ years of experience in treating adults with PTSD, depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, ADHD and weight management. She practices as a Board Certified Psychiatric and Mental Health NP with a wealth of education & experience. Dr. Sim graduated Summa Cum Laude from Rutgers University with Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees in Nursing. She further received a Medical Degree and PhD in Public Health from University of Science, Arts and Technology, Montserrat (Florida campus). Dr Sim believes in a personalized treatment plan for each patient be it medication therapy and/or psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a background as a general medical practitioner in my home country Nigeria, this has prepared me to be able to look at mental illnes with a comprehensive approach knowing fully well that physical illness can be a trigger for mental illness. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, combining evidence-based medication management with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications to support overall well-being. My goal is to provide compassionate and individualized care that helps patients achieve lasting mental health improvements.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a background as a general medical practitioner in my home country Nigeria, this has prepared me to be able to look at mental illnes with a comprehensive approach knowing fully well that physical illness can be a trigger for mental illness. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, combining evidence-based medication management with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications to support overall well-being. My goal is to provide compassionate and individualized care that helps patients achieve lasting mental health improvements.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care across the lifespan. With over nine years of experience as a psychiatric registered nurse, I have developed extensive clinical experience working with individuals facing a wide range of psychiatric disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, substance use disorders, and other mental health concerns. My clinical approach integrates thorough assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, with a strong emphasis on personalized treatment planning.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered mental health care across the lifespan. With over nine years of experience as a psychiatric registered nurse, I have developed extensive clinical experience working with individuals facing a wide range of psychiatric disorders, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related conditions, substance use disorders, and other mental health concerns. My clinical approach integrates thorough assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, with a strong emphasis on personalized treatment planning.
See more therapy options for 07032
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07032
< 10
Psychiatrists in 07032 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | Medication Management |
| 83% | ADHD |
| 67% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 67% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 67% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 07032 see their clients
| 83% | In Person and Online | |
| 17% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 67% | Female | |
| 33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07032?
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.

