Psychiatrists in 07069

Hello, I am Dr. Shilin Pandya, Board Certified Psychiatrist. I have been helping people just like you for many years. I concentrate on treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms of a problem. This holistic approach takes into account any factors affecting you - culture, job, school, medical issues, family, religion, sleep, appetite, past trauma, etc. Issues that are unique to every human being and require individual attention and treatment. The goal of each visit is to leave you empowered to live a more content life.
Hello, I am Dr. Shilin Pandya, Board Certified Psychiatrist. I have been helping people just like you for many years. I concentrate on treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms of a problem. This holistic approach takes into account any factors affecting you - culture, job, school, medical issues, family, religion, sleep, appetite, past trauma, etc. Issues that are unique to every human being and require individual attention and treatment. The goal of each visit is to leave you empowered to live a more content life.

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.
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*Video Sessions Available* I welcome you as you are. You may be seeking to shift a pattern of thinking or behavior, to heal trauma from your past, or to just stop feeling so lousy. We will partner together to understand your strengths, stuck points, and goals, and we will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. We will help you create the life that you want and deserve, one step at a time, at your pace. You may see me for psychotherapy, medications, or both. I work with all adults 18 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, lack of fulfillment, trauma, creativity/performance challenges, and spiritual & cultural issues.
*Video Sessions Available* I welcome you as you are. You may be seeking to shift a pattern of thinking or behavior, to heal trauma from your past, or to just stop feeling so lousy. We will partner together to understand your strengths, stuck points, and goals, and we will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. We will help you create the life that you want and deserve, one step at a time, at your pace. You may see me for psychotherapy, medications, or both. I work with all adults 18 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, lack of fulfillment, trauma, creativity/performance challenges, and spiritual & cultural issues.

Hi, I am a board certified general adult and forensic psychiatrist. I have experience in treating patients with mental illness in a variety of settings. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York and offer telepsychiatry at this time. During these stressful times, some of you may have developed new onset depression and anxiety, whereas some may experience worsening of older conditions. Whether you are experiencing new onset or worsening depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, interpersonal problems, or other serious symptoms; ultimately these prevent you from living your life to your fullest potential. I want to help you feel better.
Hi, I am a board certified general adult and forensic psychiatrist. I have experience in treating patients with mental illness in a variety of settings. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York and offer telepsychiatry at this time. During these stressful times, some of you may have developed new onset depression and anxiety, whereas some may experience worsening of older conditions. Whether you are experiencing new onset or worsening depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, interpersonal problems, or other serious symptoms; ultimately these prevent you from living your life to your fullest potential. I want to help you feel better.

My name is Samuel Okechukwu, and I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare to individuals across the lifespan. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on empowering patients to achieve their mental health goals through both psychotherapy and medication management when needed.
My name is Samuel Okechukwu, and I am a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare to individuals across the lifespan. My approach is collaborative and patient-centered, focusing on empowering patients to achieve their mental health goals through both psychotherapy and medication management when needed.

Mary FitzGerald Switala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.

Feeling alone in your struggles with depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You're not. At Hello Psychiatry, we understand the invisible weight you carry. Our doctorally-prepared board-certified psychiatric provider, Dr. Graham, is here to listen without judgment and guide you toward a brighter future.
Feeling alone in your struggles with depression, anxiety, or ADHD? You're not. At Hello Psychiatry, we understand the invisible weight you carry. Our doctorally-prepared board-certified psychiatric provider, Dr. Graham, is here to listen without judgment and guide you toward a brighter future.

I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with more than sixteen years of clinical experience. I am committed to improving the well-being of my patients through high quality care, compassion and academic excellence. In my practice I use a combination of psychopharmacology and supportive psychotherapy to ensure a better quality of life. I practice evidence-based medicine and apply current scientific evidence in helping patients with both medications and talk therapy. Treatment is custom-designed based on individual clinical and psychological needs.
My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety Disorders (including OCD).
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with more than sixteen years of clinical experience. I am committed to improving the well-being of my patients through high quality care, compassion and academic excellence. In my practice I use a combination of psychopharmacology and supportive psychotherapy to ensure a better quality of life. I practice evidence-based medicine and apply current scientific evidence in helping patients with both medications and talk therapy. Treatment is custom-designed based on individual clinical and psychological needs.
My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety Disorders (including OCD).

Accepting new patients throughout New Jersey! Have you ever wondered, what you're feeling if it's normal? Are you forgetful? Is it difficult to concentrate, or are you easily distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning. Do you lack motivation to participate in life activities? Do you find yourself crying for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep? Do you wake up multiple times at night and feels exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to face these challenges alone! I would love to help. I can provide that hand to support you.
Accepting new patients throughout New Jersey! Have you ever wondered, what you're feeling if it's normal? Are you forgetful? Is it difficult to concentrate, or are you easily distracted? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning. Do you lack motivation to participate in life activities? Do you find yourself crying for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep? Do you wake up multiple times at night and feels exhausted the next day? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling anxious and on edge? You do not have to face these challenges alone! I would love to help. I can provide that hand to support you.

Ololade Ekwere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has practiced for over 12 years in various capacities in healthcare serving patients and their families. During her career and education, Lola developed comfort treating individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders and other common psychiatric disorders.
Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has practiced for over 12 years in various capacities in healthcare serving patients and their families. During her career and education, Lola developed comfort treating individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders and other common psychiatric disorders.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.

I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in working with adults in behavioral health. Funmi's experience in adults diagnosed with ADHD, ADD, mood, and anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and PTSD. I have devoted 21 years of experience in treating patients with mental health. Practicing kindness and compassion has been essential. Able health care accepting Medicare, Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna Optum UBH, Oxford Health Plan, Compsych, Maritain, Multiplan for New York, and self cash payment.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner specializing in working with adults in behavioral health. Funmi's experience in adults diagnosed with ADHD, ADD, mood, and anxiety disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, and PTSD. I have devoted 21 years of experience in treating patients with mental health. Practicing kindness and compassion has been essential. Able health care accepting Medicare, Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna Optum UBH, Oxford Health Plan, Compsych, Maritain, Multiplan for New York, and self cash payment.

Hello, my name is Mary May Montenegro a double certified nurse practitioner in family practice and psychiatry. I believe in the power of clear communication and patient education. My priority is to help patients understand their health and feel empowered in their treatment. I am committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care that promotes overall well-being. My approach to providing mental healthcare is to combine cognitive and behavioral perspectives. Our thoughts, behaviors, and feelings are all connected. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
Hello, my name is Mary May Montenegro a double certified nurse practitioner in family practice and psychiatry. I believe in the power of clear communication and patient education. My priority is to help patients understand their health and feel empowered in their treatment. I am committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care that promotes overall well-being. My approach to providing mental healthcare is to combine cognitive and behavioral perspectives. Our thoughts, behaviors, and feelings are all connected. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Dr. Datta helps patients untangle the psychological and emotional roots of their struggles, going beyond quick fixes to achieve true transformation. He fine-tunes medications with precision, ensuring they work in harmony with the mind and body, rather than masking deeper issues. By integrating psychotherapy, EMDR, and meditation, he helps patients break free from negative cycles, rediscover their authentic selves, and cultivate lasting emotional balance. His approach isn’t about just managing symptoms - it’s about reshaping your inner world so you can live with greater clarity, purpose, and fulfillment.
Dr. Datta helps patients untangle the psychological and emotional roots of their struggles, going beyond quick fixes to achieve true transformation. He fine-tunes medications with precision, ensuring they work in harmony with the mind and body, rather than masking deeper issues. By integrating psychotherapy, EMDR, and meditation, he helps patients break free from negative cycles, rediscover their authentic selves, and cultivate lasting emotional balance. His approach isn’t about just managing symptoms - it’s about reshaping your inner world so you can live with greater clarity, purpose, and fulfillment.

I'm a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, and have more than forty years of experience in the field. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine, I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at St. Vincent's Hospital and my Child/Adolescent Fellowship at NYU/Bellevue in New York City. I am a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and a former Laughlin Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists.
I'm a Board Certified Psychiatrist in both Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry, and have more than forty years of experience in the field. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine, I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at St. Vincent's Hospital and my Child/Adolescent Fellowship at NYU/Bellevue in New York City. I am a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and a former Laughlin Fellow of the American College of Psychiatrists.

Dr. Michael Stefanovich is a Board Certified Clinical Psychiatrist in Cresskill, New Jersey. He has served the Bergen County Community for over sixteen years. Dr. Stefanovich completed his residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, has a background in research, having done a doctoral thesis in applied molecular biology, as well as postdoctoral research as a Keck fellow at the Psychiatric Institute of New York and then as a postdoctoral fellow at Mount Sinai Hospital in genetics. Dr. Stefanovich treats young adults through seniors.
Dr. Michael Stefanovich is a Board Certified Clinical Psychiatrist in Cresskill, New Jersey. He has served the Bergen County Community for over sixteen years. Dr. Stefanovich completed his residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, has a background in research, having done a doctoral thesis in applied molecular biology, as well as postdoctoral research as a Keck fellow at the Psychiatric Institute of New York and then as a postdoctoral fellow at Mount Sinai Hospital in genetics. Dr. Stefanovich treats young adults through seniors.

OCA Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07103
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to The COVID-19 Health Crisis.
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to The COVID-19 Health Crisis.

Caren Goldstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Family Psychiatric Advanced Nurse Practitioner, with many years in the field, treating children, adolescents, adults and families. I perform psychiatric evaluations, design comprehensive treatment plans, prescribes medication and provides brief therapy. I have experience reinforcing DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills as well as behavior modification. I have a passion for working with youth on the autistic spectrum as well as with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and behavior problems. Experience working with Child Study Teams as well as working with schools and guidance counselors to recommend accommodations for 504 plans and IEPs.
I am a Family Psychiatric Advanced Nurse Practitioner, with many years in the field, treating children, adolescents, adults and families. I perform psychiatric evaluations, design comprehensive treatment plans, prescribes medication and provides brief therapy. I have experience reinforcing DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills as well as behavior modification. I have a passion for working with youth on the autistic spectrum as well as with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders and behavior problems. Experience working with Child Study Teams as well as working with schools and guidance counselors to recommend accommodations for 504 plans and IEPs.

Alyssa Killion
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
43 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand the complexities of navigating mental health care with 13 years of prescribing experience across inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and substance use concerns. My approach integrates holistic methods alongside traditional treatment to obtain optimal results.
I understand the complexities of navigating mental health care with 13 years of prescribing experience across inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and substance use concerns. My approach integrates holistic methods alongside traditional treatment to obtain optimal results.

Vivian Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGNP, LSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
If you are seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to managing your psychiatric/mental health challenges and substance abuse issues, Vivanchi Radiant Health is the center for you! With over 25 years of experience, I offer a unique blend of therapeutic and medical expertise as a licensed social worker and dual-certified medical and psychiatric nurse practitioner. My practice is dedicated to understanding each client's unique needs, providing a nurturing environment to develop coping strategies, achieve emotional stability, and gain self-understanding. Together, we can work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life!
If you are seeking a compassionate and holistic approach to managing your psychiatric/mental health challenges and substance abuse issues, Vivanchi Radiant Health is the center for you! With over 25 years of experience, I offer a unique blend of therapeutic and medical expertise as a licensed social worker and dual-certified medical and psychiatric nurse practitioner. My practice is dedicated to understanding each client's unique needs, providing a nurturing environment to develop coping strategies, achieve emotional stability, and gain self-understanding. Together, we can work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life!
See more therapy options for 07069
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07069
< 10
Psychiatrists in 07069 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Suicidal Ideation |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 07069 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 07069?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.