Psychiatrists in 07061

Photo of Tina Anighoro-Okezie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Tina Anighoro-Okezie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, my name is Tina, and I am dedicated to providing thorough mental health care for individuals across all age groups. I specialize in conducting detailed evaluations, making accurate diagnoses, and creating personalized treatment plans for those struggling with various mental health issues. I am an expert in both managing medication and offering supportive therapy. I always prioritize the comprehensive well-being of my patients. My unique understanding of cultural diversity enables me to build meaningful connections with you no matter your background, which is crucial for getting you feeling like yourself again.
Hi, my name is Tina, and I am dedicated to providing thorough mental health care for individuals across all age groups. I specialize in conducting detailed evaluations, making accurate diagnoses, and creating personalized treatment plans for those struggling with various mental health issues. I am an expert in both managing medication and offering supportive therapy. I always prioritize the comprehensive well-being of my patients. My unique understanding of cultural diversity enables me to build meaningful connections with you no matter your background, which is crucial for getting you feeling like yourself again.
(551) 367-0133 View (551) 367-0133

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Lavanya Kamineni, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Lavanya Kamineni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-B
Somerset, NJ 08873
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 Rosamaria Gomes-Verdadeiro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Rosamaria Gomes-Verdadeiro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Paramus, NJ 07652
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in pediatric and adult psychiatry, with particular expertise in children, teens, and young adults. Over a decade as a school nurse informs how I approach childhood disorders like ADHD, autism, and behavioral dysregulation. I also work with college students and young adults navigating anxiety and depression. Trilingual in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, I offer culturally responsive care to diverse communities. I see clients via secure telehealth across New Jersey, with in-person sessions at our Paramus and Edison offices.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) specializing in pediatric and adult psychiatry, with particular expertise in children, teens, and young adults. Over a decade as a school nurse informs how I approach childhood disorders like ADHD, autism, and behavioral dysregulation. I also work with college students and young adults navigating anxiety and depression. Trilingual in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, I offer culturally responsive care to diverse communities. I see clients via secure telehealth across New Jersey, with in-person sessions at our Paramus and Edison offices.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Sandhya Chinala
Psychiatrist
Kendall Park, NJ 08824
At our practice, our team of dedicated psychiatrists and nurse practitioners provides comprehensive mental health care for both adults and children. We treat a wide range of mental health conditions through a personalized approach that integrates therapy and medication management. We believe that effective treatment goes beyond prescriptions. Our providers
At our practice, our team of dedicated psychiatrists and nurse practitioners provides comprehensive mental health care for both adults and children. We treat a wide range of mental health conditions through a personalized approach that integrates therapy and medication management. We believe that effective treatment goes beyond prescriptions. Our providers
(732) 624-6333 View (732) 624-6333
Bergen Psychiatric Care, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
(201) 949-7625 View (201) 949-7625
Photo of Alexandra Mentor Sylvain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alexandra Mentor Sylvain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mountainside, NJ 07092
Alexandra Mentor Sylvain, a Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, helps children, adolescents, teens, and adults across New Jersey achieve greater stability and emotional well-being through personalized psychiatric care. She provides thoughtful medication management and substance use treatment, creating a respectful and collaborative environment where clients feel heard and supported. Alexandra works closely with each individual to develop tailored treatment plans that address symptoms while promoting long-term mental health and daily functioning.
Alexandra Mentor Sylvain, a Nurse Practitioner at LifeStance Health, helps children, adolescents, teens, and adults across New Jersey achieve greater stability and emotional well-being through personalized psychiatric care. She provides thoughtful medication management and substance use treatment, creating a respectful and collaborative environment where clients feel heard and supported. Alexandra works closely with each individual to develop tailored treatment plans that address symptoms while promoting long-term mental health and daily functioning.
(908) 676-7892 View (908) 676-7892
Photo of Ann Elizabeth Nolan - Mentis Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Mentis Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Princeton, NJ 08540
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online- Tele-health psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. Her training has prepared her to treat patients across the lifespan -offering consultation, evaluation, and medication management for ages six through seniors.
Accepting NJ & PA insurance. Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Treating a broad spectrum of mental health diagnoses. All screening, ADHD and Autism spectrum testing and screening "included in the initial evaluation." Office & Online- Tele-health psychiatric services. Treating children, adolescents, and adults. Ann is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings many years of professional mental health experience to the care of her patients. Her training has prepared her to treat patients across the lifespan -offering consultation, evaluation, and medication management for ages six through seniors.
(267) 570-9133 View (267) 570-9133
Kevin Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Jersey City, NJ 07306
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
(201) 801-4431 View (201) 801-4431
Photo of Dr. Suneeta Kumari, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, CCDS
Dr. Suneeta Kumari
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, CCDS
Serves Area
Dr. Kumari is a board-certified psychiatrist, licensed in Washington, DC, Maryland, and New Jersey, and a certified Suboxone prescriber. She holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from George Washington University (GWU) and completed extensive psychiatric training at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in New Jersey. Dr. Kumari is affiliated with both HMH and LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, MD, and serves as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at George Washington University.
Dr. Kumari is a board-certified psychiatrist, licensed in Washington, DC, Maryland, and New Jersey, and a certified Suboxone prescriber. She holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from George Washington University (GWU) and completed extensive psychiatric training at Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) in New Jersey. Dr. Kumari is affiliated with both HMH and LifeBridge Health in Baltimore, MD, and serves as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at George Washington University.
(443) 870-5821 View (443) 870-5821
Photo of Patty Saveriano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patty Saveriano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
West Windsor, NJ 08550
My name is Patty Saveriano, I am a dual certified nurse practitioner in Acute/ Critical Care and Psychiatry. I strongly believe in the mind/ body connection and guide my practice on these principles. I feel too often this relationship is overlooked by general practitioners and as a result has led to increased mental and physical illness. I am committed to helping people move through their struggles, so they can go back to living the life they were intended!
My name is Patty Saveriano, I am a dual certified nurse practitioner in Acute/ Critical Care and Psychiatry. I strongly believe in the mind/ body connection and guide my practice on these principles. I feel too often this relationship is overlooked by general practitioners and as a result has led to increased mental and physical illness. I am committed to helping people move through their struggles, so they can go back to living the life they were intended!
(609) 547-3213 View (609) 547-3213
Photo of Valerie DeGirolamo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, RN
Valerie DeGirolamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, RN
Freehold, NJ 07728
I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
Photo of Steven Dyckman, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven Dyckman
Psychiatrist, MD
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
(732) 238-7711 View (732) 238-7711
Photo of Staci Barilari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Staci Barilari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides warm, supportive care for anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and women’s mental health. I also work closely with individuals navigating fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. My own experience with infertility and IVF helps me bring a compassionate, realistic approach to treatment. My goal is to help you feel safe, understood, and guided. I accept most major insurance plans and verify benefits ahead of your visit.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides warm, supportive care for anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and women’s mental health. I also work closely with individuals navigating fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. My own experience with infertility and IVF helps me bring a compassionate, realistic approach to treatment. My goal is to help you feel safe, understood, and guided. I accept most major insurance plans and verify benefits ahead of your visit.
(848) 272-7153 View (848) 272-7153
Photo of Dr. Peter W Longa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
Dr. Peter W Longa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
My name is Dr. Longa. I provide in-person or telehealth management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum, and other mental/behavioral health challenges ranging from self-image, self-esteem/self-worth, accomplishment/career worries, drug/alcohol addictions, relationship conflicts, and stress in life. These are most often intertwined with a lot of mental illnesses. Please schedule your initial consultation through headway.co and go to the patient portal to set up your account and book an appointment.
My name is Dr. Longa. I provide in-person or telehealth management for anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum, and other mental/behavioral health challenges ranging from self-image, self-esteem/self-worth, accomplishment/career worries, drug/alcohol addictions, relationship conflicts, and stress in life. These are most often intertwined with a lot of mental illnesses. Please schedule your initial consultation through headway.co and go to the patient portal to set up your account and book an appointment.
(908) 642-5417 View (908) 642-5417
Photo of Rebecca Florence Mizrahi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Rebecca Florence Mizrahi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
People say I have a fun-loving and caring attitude and I am naturally optimistic. I have 10+ years of experience in the medical field and the majority of it was on the front lines of inpatient detox. Psych, especially addictions, is my calling and I’m so lucky to have found my niche so quickly.
People say I have a fun-loving and caring attitude and I am naturally optimistic. I have 10+ years of experience in the medical field and the majority of it was on the front lines of inpatient detox. Psych, especially addictions, is my calling and I’m so lucky to have found my niche so quickly.
(732) 889-5596 View (732) 889-5596
Photo of Elina Petrosyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elina Petrosyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
(973) 406-4988 View (973) 406-4988
Photo of Quamrul Hasan, Psychiatrist, MD
Quamrul Hasan
Psychiatrist, MD
Princeton, NJ 08540
I'm a board certified psychiatrist. Psychiatric symptoms/disorders are often complex and are usually influenced by genetic factors, environmental/social stimuli and personal experience. I do a comprehensive initial assessment to determine the need for medications and if medications are indicated, I carefully consider the risk-benefit-alternatives of medications. In addition to prescribing psychotropic medications, I try to bring out one's inner strength/potential for drive and motivation for better adaptation to daily stresses.
I'm a board certified psychiatrist. Psychiatric symptoms/disorders are often complex and are usually influenced by genetic factors, environmental/social stimuli and personal experience. I do a comprehensive initial assessment to determine the need for medications and if medications are indicated, I carefully consider the risk-benefit-alternatives of medications. In addition to prescribing psychotropic medications, I try to bring out one's inner strength/potential for drive and motivation for better adaptation to daily stresses.
(917) 924-6757 View (917) 924-6757
Photo of Dr. Caroline Bjorkman - Mind Space Wellness , Psychiatrist, DO
Mind Space Wellness
Psychiatrist, DO
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Dr. Caroline Bjorkman, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC, provides expert psychiatry services at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Dr. Bjorkman completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, before receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York Institute of Technology. She completed her residency and is attending physician at the Mount Sinai Health System across New York City. Dr. Bjorkman accepts most insurance providers. If you have specific questions regarding your coverage, please contact for additional information.
Dr. Caroline Bjorkman, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC, provides expert psychiatry services at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Dr. Bjorkman completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, before receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York Institute of Technology. She completed her residency and is attending physician at the Mount Sinai Health System across New York City. Dr. Bjorkman accepts most insurance providers. If you have specific questions regarding your coverage, please contact for additional information.
(646) 970-1321 View (646) 970-1321
Photo of Heather Morrison - Happy Point Behavioral Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, BC
Happy Point Behavioral Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP, BC
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Accepting Patients in New Jersey and Connecticut BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Anthem. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. My approach combines medication management with supportive psychotherapy, education, and practical coping strategies to help patients feel understood, empowered, and emotionally stable. I believe mental health treatment should be collaborative, individualized, and judgment-free.
Accepting Patients in New Jersey and Connecticut BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, Anthem. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and other mental health challenges. My approach combines medication management with supportive psychotherapy, education, and practical coping strategies to help patients feel understood, empowered, and emotionally stable. I believe mental health treatment should be collaborative, individualized, and judgment-free.
(860) 780-8287 View (860) 780-8287
Photo of Caroline Severe Next Appt One Week, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Caroline Severe Next Appt One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jersey City, NJ 07302
I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood instability, and other mental health challenges that are affecting their daily lives. Many of my clients come in feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or struggling to manage stress, relationships, or changes in their mental health. I support clients by providing thorough psychiatric evaluations, clear guidance, and individualized treatment plans. Together, we focus on stabilizing symptoms, improving daily functioning, and helping clients feel more in control of their mental health.
I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood instability, and other mental health challenges that are affecting their daily lives. Many of my clients come in feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or struggling to manage stress, relationships, or changes in their mental health. I support clients by providing thorough psychiatric evaluations, clear guidance, and individualized treatment plans. Together, we focus on stabilizing symptoms, improving daily functioning, and helping clients feel more in control of their mental health.
(862) 407-3228 View (862) 407-3228

See more therapy options for 07061

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07061

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07061 who prioritize treating:

100% Eating Disorders
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in 07061 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 07061?

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.