Psychiatrists in 07059

Photo of Julia Foxworth, MCMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Julia Foxworth
Physician Assistant, MCMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
My ideal client is someone who is invested in working collaboratively toward their mental wellness. Each person is unique and warrants an individualized approach with methods specifically tailored to their own needs. I take a holistic approach to working with my patients. It is important to recognize and work on all aspects of your life that impact your mental wellness. Providing ample education on treatment modalities and working as a team with the patient towards their goals of mental wellness are of the upmost importance.
My ideal client is someone who is invested in working collaboratively toward their mental wellness. Each person is unique and warrants an individualized approach with methods specifically tailored to their own needs. I take a holistic approach to working with my patients. It is important to recognize and work on all aspects of your life that impact your mental wellness. Providing ample education on treatment modalities and working as a team with the patient towards their goals of mental wellness are of the upmost importance.
(848) 266-6890 View (848) 266-6890
Photo of Racquel San Juan, DO, Psychiatrist
Racquel San Juan
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
(848) 359-5805 View (848) 359-5805
Photo of Brook Evans, PA-C, MSPAS, Physician Assistant
Brook Evans
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MSPAS
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts? Is your goal to tune down the impulsive, negative talk and to be able to cope and manage daily anxiety? I am here to help. I am fully transparent with my patients about my own mental health struggles. I believe sharing my own experiences allows patients to better relate and recognize that I am able to understand what they are experiencing.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts? Is your goal to tune down the impulsive, negative talk and to be able to cope and manage daily anxiety? I am here to help. I am fully transparent with my patients about my own mental health struggles. I believe sharing my own experiences allows patients to better relate and recognize that I am able to understand what they are experiencing.
(848) 600-5437 View (848) 600-5437
Photo of Padma Palvai - Mindspace Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist
Mindspace Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
(908) 913-7531 View (908) 913-7531

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Diane Jasmin, DO, Psychiatrist
Diane Jasmin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Jasmin’s goal is to help individuals across improve the quality of their lives. She provides a range of client-centered services for adults, adolescents, and families treating a number of mental health disorders. Utilizing an environment that is supportive her ultimate goal is the promotion of healing and personal growth. Dr. Jasmin's experience enables her to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care.
Dr. Jasmin’s goal is to help individuals across improve the quality of their lives. She provides a range of client-centered services for adults, adolescents, and families treating a number of mental health disorders. Utilizing an environment that is supportive her ultimate goal is the promotion of healing and personal growth. Dr. Jasmin's experience enables her to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care.
(862) 707-2359 View (862) 707-2359
Photo of Dr. Madeleine R. Eugene - Relax Your Mind Services, LLC, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Relax Your Mind Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Cliffwood, NJ 07721
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
Now Accepting New Patients- - -Most Insurance Plans Accepted- - -
(732) 800-5920 View (732) 800-5920
Photo of Mahreen Quadeer, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mahreen Quadeer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
“The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places" Ernest Hemingway . I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I have two decades of experience in health care, my specialty is using a holistic paradigm to healing, I approach mental health from a integartive psychiatric approach. My work is grounded in the belief that each person holds an innate ability to heal themselves when provided with a safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental space.
“The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places" Ernest Hemingway . I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I have two decades of experience in health care, my specialty is using a holistic paradigm to healing, I approach mental health from a integartive psychiatric approach. My work is grounded in the belief that each person holds an innate ability to heal themselves when provided with a safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental space.
(848) 347-2490 View (848) 347-2490
Photo of Sade Frazier, DO,  MS, Psychiatrist
Sade Frazier
Psychiatrist, DO, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am pleased to offer evening hours to my patients. I am Dr. Frazier, a board-certified Adult psychiatrist, who is completing fellowship training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. I follow the biopsychosocial (biological, psychological and social determinants) model, as my approach to understanding a patient’s mental health needs and determining how best to treat each unique individual.
Hello, I am pleased to offer evening hours to my patients. I am Dr. Frazier, a board-certified Adult psychiatrist, who is completing fellowship training in Child & Adolescent psychiatry. I follow the biopsychosocial (biological, psychological and social determinants) model, as my approach to understanding a patient’s mental health needs and determining how best to treat each unique individual.
(908) 663-8836 View (908) 663-8836
Photo of Kolawole Adeoti, PMHNP, APN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kolawole Adeoti
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN-BC
Verified Verified
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
More people are struggling to keep up with their mental health now more than in the past. The reasons are not far-fetched. Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and increase illicit substance use have increased on a larger scale. People want to live well; approach their daily chores/activities without anxiety, depression or mood instability. A lot of us go through mild anxiety and depression and we can still function. But when we can no longer enjoy the activities we are use to, then we need to seek help.
More people are struggling to keep up with their mental health now more than in the past. The reasons are not far-fetched. Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and increase illicit substance use have increased on a larger scale. People want to live well; approach their daily chores/activities without anxiety, depression or mood instability. A lot of us go through mild anxiety and depression and we can still function. But when we can no longer enjoy the activities we are use to, then we need to seek help.
(908) 860-8102 View (908) 860-8102
Photo of Gina Docteur Metellus, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gina Docteur Metellus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. With over 18 years of experience in psychiatry, I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults navigate a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, schizophrenia, bipolar and more. My approach is warm, open-minded, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, supportive space where you can openly address your concerns and work towards healing.
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a master's degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. With over 18 years of experience in psychiatry, I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults navigate a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, schizophrenia, bipolar and more. My approach is warm, open-minded, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs. I believe in creating a safe, supportive space where you can openly address your concerns and work towards healing.
(908) 747-1619 View (908) 747-1619
Photo of Catherine C Nwanonyiri, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine C Nwanonyiri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey. I received my Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) at University of Medicine and Dentistry, New Jersey, Master's in Nursing at Walden university and Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Walden University. My goal is to provide individualized and client-focused care utilizing a psychosocial and holistic approach to improve my client's condition. I am compassionate, personable, empathetic and very patient. I will work with each individual patient to help them reach their goal.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in New Jersey. I received my Bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) at University of Medicine and Dentistry, New Jersey, Master's in Nursing at Walden university and Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Walden University. My goal is to provide individualized and client-focused care utilizing a psychosocial and holistic approach to improve my client's condition. I am compassionate, personable, empathetic and very patient. I will work with each individual patient to help them reach their goal.
(848) 331-2183 View (848) 331-2183
Photo of John R Cooke, MD, JD, Psychiatrist
John R Cooke
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
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
Photo of Marina Atesle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Marina Atesle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
As a certified functional medicine practitioner with a deep passion for wellness, I am committed to providing a personalized approach to your mental health care. I will carefully listen to your concerns and create a customized treatment plan that fits your specific needs. This individualized strategy is aimed at addressing not just symptoms, but the underlying causes of your mental health challenges, ensuring a more holistic and effective path to well-being.
As a certified functional medicine practitioner with a deep passion for wellness, I am committed to providing a personalized approach to your mental health care. I will carefully listen to your concerns and create a customized treatment plan that fits your specific needs. This individualized strategy is aimed at addressing not just symptoms, but the underlying causes of your mental health challenges, ensuring a more holistic and effective path to well-being.
(973) 847-2948 View (973) 847-2948
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(908) 402-0993 View (908) 402-0993
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Castaneda-Ardizzone, PMHNP, BC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Jennifer Castaneda-Ardizzone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping young people & adults who are having self-esteem, negative thinking and relationship issues. Clients.I help may also be struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adhd, low level autism and/or substance use. They often have childhood trauma. They can be single, in a relationship or married. These adults are often professionals or students that find themselves overthinking and over giving & feel like they get little back. Often, they cant pinpoint whats wrong but something seems to be missing or they are constantly dealing with relationship issues. If this sounds like you reach out for support.
I specialize in helping young people & adults who are having self-esteem, negative thinking and relationship issues. Clients.I help may also be struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adhd, low level autism and/or substance use. They often have childhood trauma. They can be single, in a relationship or married. These adults are often professionals or students that find themselves overthinking and over giving & feel like they get little back. Often, they cant pinpoint whats wrong but something seems to be missing or they are constantly dealing with relationship issues. If this sounds like you reach out for support.
(862) 358-4759 View (862) 358-4759
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Joseph Gagnon - Psychiatric Edge, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Edge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Joseph Gagnon, CRNP, owner of Psychiatric Edge, believes that mental health care should be accessible, convenient, and compassionate. Joe's practice is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric services to individuals across NJ, PA, and NY. Sessions are currently virtual, but soon there will be an in-person option. We strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and achieve their mental health goals. Joe truly takes the time to listen to his clients through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy sessions. Schedule today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
Joseph Gagnon, CRNP, owner of Psychiatric Edge, believes that mental health care should be accessible, convenient, and compassionate. Joe's practice is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric services to individuals across NJ, PA, and NY. Sessions are currently virtual, but soon there will be an in-person option. We strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and achieve their mental health goals. Joe truly takes the time to listen to his clients through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy sessions. Schedule today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
(908) 650-1373 View (908) 650-1373
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Marlboro, NJ 07746
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Dr. Mariam Bekhit, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mariam Bekhit
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Dr. Bekhit is a highly accomplished and compassionate psychiatrist dedicated to providing exceptional mental healthcare. With over 20 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and a genuine commitment to the well-being of her patients, Dr. Bekhit is recognized for her profound understanding of the human mind and her ability to transform lives through her therapeutic interventions. She is board certified by Amercian Board of Child and Adolescents psychiatry and American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Bekhit is a highly accomplished and compassionate psychiatrist dedicated to providing exceptional mental healthcare. With over 20 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and a genuine commitment to the well-being of her patients, Dr. Bekhit is recognized for her profound understanding of the human mind and her ability to transform lives through her therapeutic interventions. She is board certified by Amercian Board of Child and Adolescents psychiatry and American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
(732) 965-6377 View (732) 965-6377
Photo of Kara Rafael, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kara Rafael
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Kara Rafael is a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, renowned for her comprehensive expertise in adolescent and adult mental health. Kara earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, which was followed by an accelerated nursing program at New Jersey City University, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further advanced her specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health with a master’s degree from Monmouth University. Kara’s professional path is marked by significant experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where she has adeptly managed a spectrum of mental health diagnoses.
Kara Rafael is a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, renowned for her comprehensive expertise in adolescent and adult mental health. Kara earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, which was followed by an accelerated nursing program at New Jersey City University, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further advanced her specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health with a master’s degree from Monmouth University. Kara’s professional path is marked by significant experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where she has adeptly managed a spectrum of mental health diagnoses.
(551) 373-4798 View (551) 373-4798

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07059

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07059 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
50% Trauma and PTSD
50% Psychosis
50% Bipolar Disorder
50% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

19 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Medicare
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07059 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07059?

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.