Psychiatrists in 07055

Photo of Amy Thompkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy Thompkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Looking for a mental health provider who combines expertise, compassion, and a holistic approach? Meet Amy Thompkins. Amy Thompkins is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nearly 20 years of nursing experience. She has cared for patients across multiple settings—from emergency and medical-surgical units to postpartum care—and now brings that depth of experience to psychiatric care.
Looking for a mental health provider who combines expertise, compassion, and a holistic approach? Meet Amy Thompkins. Amy Thompkins is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nearly 20 years of nursing experience. She has cared for patients across multiple settings—from emergency and medical-surgical units to postpartum care—and now brings that depth of experience to psychiatric care.
(856) 485-3263 View (856) 485-3263
Photo of Claudine Pierre, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP
Claudine Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Medication therapy plays a crucial role in managing various mental health disorders. The right medication can significantly reduce and stabilize symptoms, allowing patients to improve their quality of life. Although the effectiveness of medication can vary from person to person, proper administration, monitoring, and guidance from trained professionals are essential to help patients achieve the desired outcomes.
Medication therapy plays a crucial role in managing various mental health disorders. The right medication can significantly reduce and stabilize symptoms, allowing patients to improve their quality of life. Although the effectiveness of medication can vary from person to person, proper administration, monitoring, and guidance from trained professionals are essential to help patients achieve the desired outcomes.
(908) 860-8470 View (908) 860-8470
Photo of Amy Thompkins, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amy Thompkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Looking for a mental health provider who combines expertise, compassion, and a holistic approach? Meet Amy Thompkins. Amy Thompkins is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nearly 20 years of nursing experience. She has cared for patients across emergency, medical-surgical, and postpartum settings, and now brings that depth of experience to psychiatric care.
Looking for a mental health provider who combines expertise, compassion, and a holistic approach? Meet Amy Thompkins. Amy Thompkins is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with nearly 20 years of nursing experience. She has cared for patients across emergency, medical-surgical, and postpartum settings, and now brings that depth of experience to psychiatric care.
(856) 501-5780 View (856) 501-5780
Photo of Aphie G Amams - St. Charles Medical Consult, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APN, PMHNPBC
St. Charles Medical Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Evaluation and follow ups is now available vis Telehealth, due to the PANDEMIC. St Charles Medical Consult is dedicated to helping clients with their Mental Health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, customized individual treatment plans, medication management and referrals to appropriate psychiatric services. We help our clients to function better in the quickest possible time. We team up with our clients in working through their issues collaboratively. We accept clients for Suboxone treatment. Call for immediate appointment. Call or Email St, Charles Med Consult, for a free consultation now - (973) 564-0815.
Evaluation and follow ups is now available vis Telehealth, due to the PANDEMIC. St Charles Medical Consult is dedicated to helping clients with their Mental Health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, customized individual treatment plans, medication management and referrals to appropriate psychiatric services. We help our clients to function better in the quickest possible time. We team up with our clients in working through their issues collaboratively. We accept clients for Suboxone treatment. Call for immediate appointment. Call or Email St, Charles Med Consult, for a free consultation now - (973) 564-0815.
(973) 564-0815 View (973) 564-0815
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 Olga (Golda) Ryabinsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olga (Golda) Ryabinsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcome to my women-only practice, where compassionate care meets specialized expertise. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to women's mental health, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated, educated, and thoughtful about their treatment goals and outcomes.
Welcome to my women-only practice, where compassionate care meets specialized expertise. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to women's mental health, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated, educated, and thoughtful about their treatment goals and outcomes.
(848) 356-4606 View (848) 356-4606
Photo of Sandy Hussain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN, BSN
Sandy Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN, BSN
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Sandy Hussain—a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping people take control of their mental well-being. I work with adults facing anxiety, sleep issues, ADHD, depression, and more, creating thoughtful, personalized medication plans designed to make life feel a little lighter and a lot more manageable. I offer in-person sessions in West Orange, NJ, as well as telehealth services to clients throughout New Jersey, ensuring support is always within reach. I’m also the founder and provider at Hope Health Care Solutions, where compassionate, client-centered care is always our priority.
Hi, I’m Sandy Hussain—a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping people take control of their mental well-being. I work with adults facing anxiety, sleep issues, ADHD, depression, and more, creating thoughtful, personalized medication plans designed to make life feel a little lighter and a lot more manageable. I offer in-person sessions in West Orange, NJ, as well as telehealth services to clients throughout New Jersey, ensuring support is always within reach. I’m also the founder and provider at Hope Health Care Solutions, where compassionate, client-centered care is always our priority.
(973) 791-8628 View (973) 791-8628
Photo of Nicole Ibe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Nicole Ibe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Serves Area
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
(609) 542-2295 View (609) 542-2295
Photo of Joyce Manu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joyce Manu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to clients across their lifespan. My practice specializes in treating a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions. I focus on empowering my clients to achieve emotional balance and an improved quality of life.
I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to clients across their lifespan. My practice specializes in treating a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma-related conditions. I focus on empowering my clients to achieve emotional balance and an improved quality of life.
(973) 370-9753 View (973) 370-9753
Photo of Kylee Gonzalez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Kylee Gonzalez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health. I can provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications and be a part of your support system. The majority of my experience has been with very vulnerable populations, those with chronic and persistent mental illness, people experiencing homelessness or substance use disorders, and those who lack access to healthcare. I was trained in New York City, received my Bachelors from NYU and my Masters from Hunter College.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and am certified in Perinatal Mental Health. I can provide psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications and be a part of your support system. The majority of my experience has been with very vulnerable populations, those with chronic and persistent mental illness, people experiencing homelessness or substance use disorders, and those who lack access to healthcare. I was trained in New York City, received my Bachelors from NYU and my Masters from Hunter College.
(973) 922-9117 View (973) 922-9117
Photo of Casey Ann Thompson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Casey Ann Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience working across various settings within the continuum of care. My passion lies in caring for clients with substance use disorders. I also enjoy caring for clients with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. Having cared for vulnerable populations in large metropolitan areas, I've developed a strong commitment to providing access to affordable, quality mental health care — no matter where a patient may be located. In my free time, you can find me reading a good book, cheering on my kids as a proud sports mom, or trying new restaurants.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience working across various settings within the continuum of care. My passion lies in caring for clients with substance use disorders. I also enjoy caring for clients with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. Having cared for vulnerable populations in large metropolitan areas, I've developed a strong commitment to providing access to affordable, quality mental health care — no matter where a patient may be located. In my free time, you can find me reading a good book, cheering on my kids as a proud sports mom, or trying new restaurants.
(973) 798-9208 View (973) 798-9208
Photo of Chibuike K Enyinnia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chibuike K Enyinnia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC) licensed in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I earned my Master’s degree from Walden University and have been dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care for the past two years.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PHMNP-BC) licensed in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I earned my Master’s degree from Walden University and have been dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care for the past two years.
(640) 356-4916 View (640) 356-4916
Photo of Ubong Udofia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ubong Udofia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am a Doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in New Jersey. With over 13 years of clinical experience in the mental health field, I provide holistic, professional care to patients on their journey to recovery. Together, we can set goals that are tailored specifically to your treatment needs. My approach is a Patient-centered focus.
I am a Doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in New Jersey. With over 13 years of clinical experience in the mental health field, I provide holistic, professional care to patients on their journey to recovery. Together, we can set goals that are tailored specifically to your treatment needs. My approach is a Patient-centered focus.
(732) 907-8340 View (732) 907-8340
Photo of Sheila Jourdain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Sheila Jourdain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
Fully Virtual for "All of New Jersey" I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
Fully Virtual for "All of New Jersey" I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides a holistic approach in the treatment of mental challenges and conditions. I specialize in the treatment of adults in providing motivational talk psychotherapy, medication management, consulting, and alternative treatments when applicable. I am eager and excited to assist patients in achieving their individual goals for their mental health. I like to work alongside my patients as a guide to help them decide the best treatment options for their diagnosis.
(908) 460-5433 View (908) 460-5433
Photo of Michael Sanya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Michael Sanya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, my name is Michael Sanya, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care, focusing on mental health evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management. With over a decade of healthcare experience, I am committed to creating a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued while working collaboratively to achieve optimal mental health outcomes.
Hello, my name is Michael Sanya, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate in nursing. I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care, focusing on mental health evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and medication management. With over a decade of healthcare experience, I am committed to creating a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued while working collaboratively to achieve optimal mental health outcomes.
(908) 676-6579 View (908) 676-6579
Photo of Lavanya Kamineni, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Lavanya Kamineni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
1 Endorsed
Online Only
There is no such a thing as “Ideal client”. Each individual is unique and tailored to fit needs. If you are having mood up and down, feeling sad, not able to concentrate or focus at work or school, irritability or anger, I am here to help you to get through it. I believe in a holistic approach, take time to understand each individual's needs and tailor a treatment plan accordingly. I practice evidence-based medication treatment along with talk therapy. Specialized in treating common issues like ADHD, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
There is no such a thing as “Ideal client”. Each individual is unique and tailored to fit needs. If you are having mood up and down, feeling sad, not able to concentrate or focus at work or school, irritability or anger, I am here to help you to get through it. I believe in a holistic approach, take time to understand each individual's needs and tailor a treatment plan accordingly. I practice evidence-based medication treatment along with talk therapy. Specialized in treating common issues like ADHD, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
(201) 510-0353 View (201) 510-0353
Photo of Rachene Alexander, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Rachene Alexander
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Rachene Alexander, NP, is an empathetic and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College, where she cultivated her deep understanding of mental health. With experience treating both adolescents and adults with a range of mental health disorders, Rachene approaches every individual with compassion and sensitivity. She genuinely cares about the well-being of her patients and is dedicated to providing the emotional support they need throughout their treatment journey.
Rachene Alexander, NP, is an empathetic and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College, where she cultivated her deep understanding of mental health. With experience treating both adolescents and adults with a range of mental health disorders, Rachene approaches every individual with compassion and sensitivity. She genuinely cares about the well-being of her patients and is dedicated to providing the emotional support they need throughout their treatment journey.
(609) 324-5690 View (609) 324-5690
Photo of Svetlana Aynbinder, Psychiatric Nurse
Svetlana Aynbinder
Psychiatric Nurse
Online Only
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to helping individuals achieve mental and emotional well-being. Using a compassionate, patient-centered approach, I specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. Through evidence-based care, including therapy and medication management, I aim to empower you to navigate challenges, build resilience, and reach your fullest potential. Your mental health journey matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I am committed to helping individuals achieve mental and emotional well-being. Using a compassionate, patient-centered approach, I specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. Through evidence-based care, including therapy and medication management, I aim to empower you to navigate challenges, build resilience, and reach your fullest potential. Your mental health journey matters, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(908) 734-9344 View (908) 734-9344
Photo of Maria Escobar, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Maria Escobar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based care. I’m here to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered in your mental health journey.
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My approach is warm, collaborative, and rooted in evidence-based care. I’m here to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered in your mental health journey.
(732) 860-2412 View (732) 860-2412
Photo of Doris Chukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Doris Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
With over 10 years of experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me to provide the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services include providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing an appropriate diagnosis, and working with the client to choose individualized, suitable treatment and therapy.
With over 10 years of experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me to provide the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services include providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing an appropriate diagnosis, and working with the client to choose individualized, suitable treatment and therapy.
(908) 987-3288 View (908) 987-3288

See more therapy options for 07055

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07055

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 07055 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
84% Bipolar Disorder
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
69% ADHD
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
95% Aetna
87% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07055 see their clients

84% Online Only
16% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07055?

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.