Psychiatrists in 07043

Photo of Maria Karmina Cartasano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-C
Maria Karmina Cartasano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with persistent sadness, or experiencing mood swings that impact your daily life? You’re not alone, and support is available. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with persistent sadness, or experiencing mood swings that impact your daily life? You’re not alone, and support is available. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
(973) 604-2891 View (973) 604-2891
Photo of Maria Escobar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maria Escobar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Montclair, NJ 07043
At MMC Psychiatric Care and Wellness, I understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, my practice is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses your specific needs. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a broad perspective to treatment, employing an integrative approach that combines traditional therapeutic methods with holistic strategies for a personalized and effective plan of care.
At MMC Psychiatric Care and Wellness, I understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, my practice is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses your specific needs. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a broad perspective to treatment, employing an integrative approach that combines traditional therapeutic methods with holistic strategies for a personalized and effective plan of care.
(551) 226-9234 View (551) 226-9234
Photo of Geraldine Best, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, MBA/HCM
Geraldine Best
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, MBA/HCM
Montclair, NJ 07043
Hi there! I'm Geraldine Best, and for over 16 years I'm a dual board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, helping people like you find healing, overcome challenges, and strengthen their relationships. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, pharmacological management, ADHD and DNA testing. I work with pediatric children ages 5+, teens, young adults, and older adults. I know that each patient that comes to me has a unique story and their own individual struggles. I am always honored to join with that person in the important work of helping them see their own strength and re-discover their joy in living.
Hi there! I'm Geraldine Best, and for over 16 years I'm a dual board-certified family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, helping people like you find healing, overcome challenges, and strengthen their relationships. I conduct psychiatric evaluations, pharmacological management, ADHD and DNA testing. I work with pediatric children ages 5+, teens, young adults, and older adults. I know that each patient that comes to me has a unique story and their own individual struggles. I am always honored to join with that person in the important work of helping them see their own strength and re-discover their joy in living.
(862) 362-2735 View (862) 362-2735
Photo of Marcel Kaganovskaya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Marcel Kaganovskaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
5 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner I focus on giving you the tools to achieve the best version of yourself. Times may be hard, but I am here to help. I enjoy working with various communities such as LGBTQI+ & see patients of all ages. I assist clients with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention- Deficit/Hyperactive Disorders (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), daily stress and other mental health needs. I accept most insurances in NY & NJ. Feel free to make an appointment today & visit my website at: www.mindfulcognition.com
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner I focus on giving you the tools to achieve the best version of yourself. Times may be hard, but I am here to help. I enjoy working with various communities such as LGBTQI+ & see patients of all ages. I assist clients with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention- Deficit/Hyperactive Disorders (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), daily stress and other mental health needs. I accept most insurances in NY & NJ. Feel free to make an appointment today & visit my website at: www.mindfulcognition.com
(973) 545-7125 View (973) 545-7125
Photo of Diane DeCarolis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Diane DeCarolis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043
Waitlist for new clients
With more than 30 years of experience in the Mental Health field, I began to practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner after graduating from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2013. My goal as a mental health provider is to help patients to alleviate their symptoms and to reach their highest potential in all aspects of their lives.
With more than 30 years of experience in the Mental Health field, I began to practice as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner after graduating from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2013. My goal as a mental health provider is to help patients to alleviate their symptoms and to reach their highest potential in all aspects of their lives.
(973) 434-5078 View (973) 434-5078
Photo of Robert Moreines, Psychiatrist, MD
Robert Moreines
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Upper Montclair, NJ 07043
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.
(973) 746-3333 View (973) 746-3333
Sarah Meyer
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment for adults. After receiving my medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College, I completed residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical Center in Manhattan. Following residency, I worked for several years as an attending psychiatrist on an inpatient unit at Columbia University Medical Center. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in women's mental health, including psychiatric issues surrounding pregnancy, post-partum, fertility, PMS, and menopause.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment for adults. After receiving my medical degree from Weill Cornell Medical College, I completed residency at New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical Center in Manhattan. Following residency, I worked for several years as an attending psychiatrist on an inpatient unit at Columbia University Medical Center. I specialize in a broad range of psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Additionally, I have a particular focus in women's mental health, including psychiatric issues surrounding pregnancy, post-partum, fertility, PMS, and menopause.
(973) 850-4620 View (973) 850-4620
Photo of Corine Iwuala - Global Health Resources and Referral Services, Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Global Health Resources and Referral Services, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
At Health Resources and Referral Services, Inc, you will find an experienced provider who has helped clients just like you build richer more rewarding lives. Our provider is a DNP, MHPNP-BC
At Health Resources and Referral Services, Inc, you will find an experienced provider who has helped clients just like you build richer more rewarding lives. Our provider is a DNP, MHPNP-BC
(973) 528-7960 View (973) 528-7960
Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am Eronmwon Balogun (pronounced "Aero-one"), a dedicated board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adult psychiatry. Before transitioning into mental and behavioral health care, I spent eight years as a nurse, driven by compassion for helping others. My passion for psychiatry is rooted in a deep desire to reshape the way mental health is viewed and treated, especially in communities where it has been stigmatized. I grew up in a culture where mental health was often misunderstood, and those struggling were marginalized or treated unfairly.
Hi, I am Eronmwon Balogun (pronounced "Aero-one"), a dedicated board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in adult psychiatry. Before transitioning into mental and behavioral health care, I spent eight years as a nurse, driven by compassion for helping others. My passion for psychiatry is rooted in a deep desire to reshape the way mental health is viewed and treated, especially in communities where it has been stigmatized. I grew up in a culture where mental health was often misunderstood, and those struggling were marginalized or treated unfairly.
(856) 588-1650 View (856) 588-1650
Photo of Suhana deLeon-Sanchez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NCTTP
Suhana deLeon-Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NCTTP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Day-to-day life does not have to be THIS hard. You do not deserve to feel overwhelmed with feelings of sadness, despair, fear, worry, or that you cannot get yourself to sleep or focus enough to function at work or at home. Therapy, eating a well-balanced nutritious diet, and getting enough exercise are sometimes not enough. Combining talk therapy with medications can help you manage your stress so that you can regain some control in your life. Using medications can be short-term only. Speak to a prescriber who will educate, guide, and support you in selecting a safe & effective treatment option tailored specifically for you.
Day-to-day life does not have to be THIS hard. You do not deserve to feel overwhelmed with feelings of sadness, despair, fear, worry, or that you cannot get yourself to sleep or focus enough to function at work or at home. Therapy, eating a well-balanced nutritious diet, and getting enough exercise are sometimes not enough. Combining talk therapy with medications can help you manage your stress so that you can regain some control in your life. Using medications can be short-term only. Speak to a prescriber who will educate, guide, and support you in selecting a safe & effective treatment option tailored specifically for you.
(347) 685-6996 View (347) 685-6996
Photo of John R Cooke, Psychiatrist, MD, JD
John R Cooke
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and am board-certified in psychiatry. My background in medicine is diverse; I have also been an emergency physician. It is my professional conviction that one can live a meaningful and fulfilling life only through addressing the health of both the mind and the body. Thus, effective psychiatry must assess all aspects of a patient's condition.
I graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and am board-certified in psychiatry. My background in medicine is diverse; I have also been an emergency physician. It is my professional conviction that one can live a meaningful and fulfilling life only through addressing the health of both the mind and the body. Thus, effective psychiatry must assess all aspects of a patient's condition.
(973) 509-1500 View (973) 509-1500
Rehan Malik
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
(973) 348-3786 View (973) 348-3786
Photo of Linda Oppong Winful - Wellness Direct LLC (Dr. Winful), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PHMNP, APRNBC, DNP
Wellness Direct LLC (Dr. Winful)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PHMNP, APRNBC, DNP
Serves Area
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.
(973) 755-1548 View (973) 755-1548

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Union, NJ 07083
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(908) 676-6652 View (908) 676-6652
Tri America Health and Wellness
Psychiatrist, MD, LCSW, LCADC
Online Only
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.
(201) 347-1447 View (201) 347-1447
Photo of Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
Catherine “Kasia” Bodnar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your well-being! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I bring to my practice not only clinical expertise but also compassion, empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. My journey in mental health care has been driven by a deep-rooted passion to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing various mental health challenges. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, insomnia or other mental illness I am here to offer my help.
(908) 895-6131 View (908) 895-6131
Photo of Robert Reff, Psychiatrist, MD
Robert Reff
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Over the more than three decades that I have been in practice, the field of psychiatry has undergone dramatic changes. We now have available many medications that have significantly and substantially improved the quality of life and long term functioning of numerous people. A number of psychiatrists only see their patients for brief medication management visits on a reasonably infrequent basis. This is not a model of treatment that I employ or am comfortable with.
Over the more than three decades that I have been in practice, the field of psychiatry has undergone dramatic changes. We now have available many medications that have significantly and substantially improved the quality of life and long term functioning of numerous people. A number of psychiatrists only see their patients for brief medication management visits on a reasonably infrequent basis. This is not a model of treatment that I employ or am comfortable with.
(312) 789-5408 View (312) 789-5408
Photo of Fatmata Raymond, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fatmata Raymond
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, Do you feel stressed, less motivated, tired and struggling to keep up with life's challenges? It's okay not to be okay, your struggles do not define you. Taking the first step towards improving your mental well-being can feel daunting, but by reaching out, you've already displayed tremendous courage. I understand that finding the right path to recovery can be overwhelming, which is why I am here to help you.
Hello, Do you feel stressed, less motivated, tired and struggling to keep up with life's challenges? It's okay not to be okay, your struggles do not define you. Taking the first step towards improving your mental well-being can feel daunting, but by reaching out, you've already displayed tremendous courage. I understand that finding the right path to recovery can be overwhelming, which is why I am here to help you.
(609) 451-7786 View (609) 451-7786
Photo of Richard E Tuvako - Intouch Medical Consult LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Intouch Medical Consult LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
We serve neurodivergent individuals and families seeking care that honors neurological differences. Many find us after experiencing providers who viewed neurodivergence as a problem rather than a natural variation. Our clients typically struggle with managing mental health alongside neurodivergent traits, need strategies aligned with their processing styles, face challenges in neurotypical environments, want to prevent hospitalization, and seek to build resilience in an unaccommodating world. We provide affirming care that works with your neurology, not against it.
We serve neurodivergent individuals and families seeking care that honors neurological differences. Many find us after experiencing providers who viewed neurodivergence as a problem rather than a natural variation. Our clients typically struggle with managing mental health alongside neurodivergent traits, need strategies aligned with their processing styles, face challenges in neurotypical environments, want to prevent hospitalization, and seek to build resilience in an unaccommodating world. We provide affirming care that works with your neurology, not against it.
(862) 304-5169 View (862) 304-5169
Photo of Tonnesha Kidd, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN
Tonnesha Kidd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APN
Serves Area
Every client is unique in their mental health needs. I strive to provide holistic care, and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health well being of all clients across the lifespan.
Every client is unique in their mental health needs. I strive to provide holistic care, and treatment plan geared at improving the overall mental health well being of all clients across the lifespan.
(609) 201-3805 View (609) 201-3805

See more therapy options for 07043

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07043

10+

Average cost per session

$295

Psychiatrists in 07043 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
92% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
85% ADHD
85% Bipolar Disorder
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Medication Management

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 07043 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07043?

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.