Psychiatrists in 07040

Photo of Callister Ibe - Future Hope Mental Care of NJ, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Future Hope Mental Care of NJ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I want clients to be able to have an open non-judgmental area to tackle their emotions, gain insights, and develop an understanding that creates changes.
I want clients to be able to have an open non-judgmental area to tackle their emotions, gain insights, and develop an understanding that creates changes.
(609) 566-8884 View (609) 566-8884
Photo of Timothy Ssewagaba, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Timothy Ssewagaba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 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 Geraldine Gabriel - Psyche Wellness Group- FL, MD, NJ, NY, WA, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psyche Wellness Group- FL, MD, NJ, NY, WA
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040  (Online Only)
Dr. Geraldine Gabriel, DNP, is a double board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Maryland, Florida, New York, Washington, and New Jersey. Specializing in personalized mental health and obesity management, she partners with clients to address root issues. Clients come to her for guidance in overcoming anxiety, depression, and life transitions. They seek balanced, lasting solutions for their mental and physical well-being, and Dr. Gabriel tailors each treatment plan to empower them toward achieving these goals.
Dr. Geraldine Gabriel, DNP, is a double board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed in Maryland, Florida, New York, Washington, and New Jersey. Specializing in personalized mental health and obesity management, she partners with clients to address root issues. Clients come to her for guidance in overcoming anxiety, depression, and life transitions. They seek balanced, lasting solutions for their mental and physical well-being, and Dr. Gabriel tailors each treatment plan to empower them toward achieving these goals.
(908) 498-9269 View (908) 498-9269
Photo of Ernest Akwaboah - Mega Professional Healthcare Services , PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mega Professional Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040  (Online Only)
Mega Professional Healthcare Services, manage by Ernest Akwaboah, APN, PMHNP-BC, provides comprehensive evidence based mental health treatments for children, adults and elderly individuals with various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, major depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, personality disorders and other mental health disorders. Feeling down, sad or persistent anxiety, or need mental health support, then we do it all! We perform mental health evaluation, all-inclusive behavioral treatment, medication management and symptoms monitoring. Call or Email ernestakwaboah@gmail.com, call 973-342-6323
Mega Professional Healthcare Services, manage by Ernest Akwaboah, APN, PMHNP-BC, provides comprehensive evidence based mental health treatments for children, adults and elderly individuals with various mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, major depression, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, personality disorders and other mental health disorders. Feeling down, sad or persistent anxiety, or need mental health support, then we do it all! We perform mental health evaluation, all-inclusive behavioral treatment, medication management and symptoms monitoring. Call or Email ernestakwaboah@gmail.com, call 973-342-6323
(908) 676-7057 View (908) 676-7057
Photo of Ivy Nnorom - Skyview Health Services LLC , APN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Skyview Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
At Skyview Health, you are welcome to a timely and convenient access to quality mental health care. We offer Spravato for treatment resistant depression, MAT with Sublocade, Vivitrol for substance use disorders. With 18 + years of clinical experience in adult /child psychiatry & substance use disorder management, Ivy Nnorom and her team are passionate about helping their clients reach and exceed their mental health goals. Their expertise is combined with empathy and is 100% non judgmental.
At Skyview Health, you are welcome to a timely and convenient access to quality mental health care. We offer Spravato for treatment resistant depression, MAT with Sublocade, Vivitrol for substance use disorders. With 18 + years of clinical experience in adult /child psychiatry & substance use disorder management, Ivy Nnorom and her team are passionate about helping their clients reach and exceed their mental health goals. Their expertise is combined with empathy and is 100% non judgmental.
(973) 996-2078 View (973) 996-2078
Photo of Vody Elaine Vincent, APN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vody Elaine Vincent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Vody Vincent is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has been working in the mental health/psychiatric field for over two decades. She has extensive experience working with individuals dealing with various mental disorders. Vody has worked with children, adolescents and adults with psychiatric illnesses such as: depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorder and other mental health issues. She uses a holistic approach in treating her clients and connects well with them through her altruistic and compassionate nature.
Vody Vincent is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has been working in the mental health/psychiatric field for over two decades. She has extensive experience working with individuals dealing with various mental disorders. Vody has worked with children, adolescents and adults with psychiatric illnesses such as: depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorder and other mental health issues. She uses a holistic approach in treating her clients and connects well with them through her altruistic and compassionate nature.
(908) 533-7607 View (908) 533-7607
Photo of Vivian Nwankwo, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP, LSW, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vivian Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP, LSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
If you are seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to managing your psychiatric/mental health challenges and substance abuse issues, Vivanchi Radiant Health is the center for you! With over 25 years of experience, I offer a unique blend of therapeutic and medical expertise as a licensed social worker and dual-certified medical and psychiatric nurse practitioner. My practice is dedicated to understanding each client's unique needs, providing a nurturing environment to develop coping strategies, achieve emotional stability, and gain self-understanding. Together, we can work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life!
If you are seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to managing your psychiatric/mental health challenges and substance abuse issues, Vivanchi Radiant Health is the center for you! With over 25 years of experience, I offer a unique blend of therapeutic and medical expertise as a licensed social worker and dual-certified medical and psychiatric nurse practitioner. My practice is dedicated to understanding each client's unique needs, providing a nurturing environment to develop coping strategies, achieve emotional stability, and gain self-understanding. Together, we can work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life!
(908) 895-5210 View (908) 895-5210
Photo of Marie Juline Cherubin, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marie Juline Cherubin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Marie Juline Cherubin has over a decade of experience working with individuals in the mental health field. She has worked with young and older adults suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mental health issues. Marie Juline uses an integrative approach that connects with clients of all backgrounds and allows them to attain the help they need.
Marie Juline Cherubin has over a decade of experience working with individuals in the mental health field. She has worked with young and older adults suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mental health issues. Marie Juline uses an integrative approach that connects with clients of all backgrounds and allows them to attain the help they need.
(908) 206-4809 View (908) 206-4809
Photo of Kate Rossettie, PMHNP, MSN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Kate Rossettie
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN, BC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Not accepting new clients
I am a Columbia University educated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management. I have 15 cherished years in mental healthcare working with very diverse populations in a wide variety of clinical settings. I treat all clients from a holistic and humanistic viewpoint and partner with them in achieving shared goals focused on optimizing their mental health and wellbeing. I have a particular interest in treating anxiety spectrum disorders and depression.
I am a Columbia University educated Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management. I have 15 cherished years in mental healthcare working with very diverse populations in a wide variety of clinical settings. I treat all clients from a holistic and humanistic viewpoint and partner with them in achieving shared goals focused on optimizing their mental health and wellbeing. I have a particular interest in treating anxiety spectrum disorders and depression.
(201) 279-6832 View (201) 279-6832
Photo of Sonali R Mahajan, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Sonali R Mahajan
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
At an early age, I began to enjoy working with children and adolescents, and that passion led me to becoming a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have worked with clients from many different background experiences, cultures, and family systems. My work centers around helping children and adolescents with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, other behavior disorders, psychotic disorders, school and peer issues, and family conflict. At this time, I'm only providing treatment for children and adolescents who are less than 18 years old.
At an early age, I began to enjoy working with children and adolescents, and that passion led me to becoming a board-certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. I have worked with clients from many different background experiences, cultures, and family systems. My work centers around helping children and adolescents with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, other behavior disorders, psychotic disorders, school and peer issues, and family conflict. At this time, I'm only providing treatment for children and adolescents who are less than 18 years old.
(973) 791-9138 View (973) 791-9138
Photo of Akinlabi Sanusi, MD, Psychiatrist
Akinlabi Sanusi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best. I believe in the combination of medication management and psychotherapy for a quick return to functioning.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best. I believe in the combination of medication management and psychotherapy for a quick return to functioning.
(732) 627-2660 View (732) 627-2660
Photo of John R De Oca, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
John R De Oca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040  (Online Only)
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
(908) 747-1471 View (908) 747-1471
Hightower Medical Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, PMHNP, - BC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040  (Online Only)
Hightower Medical Services is an organization that specializes in tailored mental health care. Since, untreated mental illness can cause severe emotional, behavioral and physical health problems, our aim is to assist client to achieve optimal health to function and enjoy a quality life. We approach this through comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and diagnostic with interpretation, medication management, and a multi disciplinary intervention. Also, to enhance self-esteem with evidence based modalities through goals focused on self-perception, self-worth, and challenging negative self-beliefs. Our clientele is across the life span.
Hightower Medical Services is an organization that specializes in tailored mental health care. Since, untreated mental illness can cause severe emotional, behavioral and physical health problems, our aim is to assist client to achieve optimal health to function and enjoy a quality life. We approach this through comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and diagnostic with interpretation, medication management, and a multi disciplinary intervention. Also, to enhance self-esteem with evidence based modalities through goals focused on self-perception, self-worth, and challenging negative self-beliefs. Our clientele is across the life span.
(908) 503-3988 View (908) 503-3988
Photo of Lonny J Behar, MD, Psychiatrist
Lonny J Behar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I'm a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, and have more than forty years of experience in the field. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine, I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at St. Vincent's Hospital and my Child/Adolescent Fellowship at NYU/Bellevue in New York City. I am a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and a former Laughlin Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists.
I'm a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, and have more than forty years of experience in the field. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine, I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at St. Vincent's Hospital and my Child/Adolescent Fellowship at NYU/Bellevue in New York City. I am a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and a former Laughlin Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists.
(908) 869-8251 View (908) 869-8251
Photo of Dr. Payal K Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Payal K Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I am a board certified child/adult psychiatrist with 20yrs of experience. My goal is to provide compassionate quality care and I use a comprehensive treatment approach. I use principles of Psychodynamic psychotherapy and CBT and integrate it with medication management. I have the experience of treating different kinds of disorders in children/teens/adults.
I am a board certified child/adult psychiatrist with 20yrs of experience. My goal is to provide compassionate quality care and I use a comprehensive treatment approach. I use principles of Psychodynamic psychotherapy and CBT and integrate it with medication management. I have the experience of treating different kinds of disorders in children/teens/adults.
(973) 791-7490 View (973) 791-7490
Photo of Oluchi Chilaka - Luchiee Psychiatric Services, DNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Luchiee Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
(973) 221-8559 View (973) 221-8559
Photo of Dr. Fehintola Ogunsakin - PMC Psychiatric Mental Health, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
PMC Psychiatric Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
(908) 840-8719 View (908) 840-8719
Photo of Calvin George, ANP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Calvin George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients throughout New Jersey! Do you ever wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Are you getting forgetful? Do you find it hard to concentrate, or get easily distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning. Do you lack motivation to participate in life activities? Are you sometimes tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep? Do you wake up multiple times at night which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to face these challenges alone! I would love to help. I can provide that hand to support you.
Accepting new patients throughout New Jersey! Do you ever wonder if what you're feeling is normal? Are you getting forgetful? Do you find it hard to concentrate, or get easily distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning. Do you lack motivation to participate in life activities? Are you sometimes tearful for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep? Do you wake up multiple times at night which leaves you feeling exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to face these challenges alone! I would love to help. I can provide that hand to support you.
(973) 241-1416 View (973) 241-1416

See more therapy options for 07040

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07040

10+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 07040 who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
83% Anxiety
72% ADHD
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Medication Management
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Aetna
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07040 see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07040?

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.