Psychiatrists in 07073

Photo of Beatrice Onifade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Beatrice Onifade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
4 Endorsed
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, or emotional burnout? At Calm Horizons Behavioral Health LLC, we provide compassionate telehealth psychiatric care, medication management, and personalized treatment to help you regain focus, balance, and emotional wellness. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I offer a supportive, judgment-free environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Now accepting new patients in Virginia, Florida, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Washington.
Struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, or emotional burnout? At Calm Horizons Behavioral Health LLC, we provide compassionate telehealth psychiatric care, medication management, and personalized treatment to help you regain focus, balance, and emotional wellness. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I offer a supportive, judgment-free environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Now accepting new patients in Virginia, Florida, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Washington.
(856) 367-0839 View (856) 367-0839
Photo of Chinenye Obeleagu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Chinenye Obeleagu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Hello, I am glad you are here. Taking the first step towards your mental health is a big step, and I want you to know that you will be welcome with kindness, understanding, and zero judgment. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a unique background. Before becoming a provider, I spent 9 years as a registered nurse working closely with people experiencing mental health challenges. That experience taught me the importance of listening, understanding each person’s story, and treating the whole person not just the diagnosis.
Hello, I am glad you are here. Taking the first step towards your mental health is a big step, and I want you to know that you will be welcome with kindness, understanding, and zero judgment. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a unique background. Before becoming a provider, I spent 9 years as a registered nurse working closely with people experiencing mental health challenges. That experience taught me the importance of listening, understanding each person’s story, and treating the whole person not just the diagnosis.
(908) 628-1660 View (908) 628-1660
Photo of David Stern, Psychiatrist, MD
David Stern
Psychiatrist, MD
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions.
(346) 214-8133 View (346) 214-8133
Photo of Raynald Joseph, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Raynald Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience managing and treating both acute and chronic mental health issues across the lifespan. I have worked in multiple health settings, both acute and chronic, which has helped with building a foundation to both diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health illnesses. You are not defined by your diagnos(es), let us work together to find what makes you your best self.
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience managing and treating both acute and chronic mental health issues across the lifespan. I have worked in multiple health settings, both acute and chronic, which has helped with building a foundation to both diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health illnesses. You are not defined by your diagnos(es), let us work together to find what makes you your best self.
(929) 590-9720 View (929) 590-9720
Photo of Felix Geller, Psychiatrist, MD
Felix Geller
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
After completing training in 2012 at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center of Shreveport, I began practicing psychiatry. have experience practicing in multiple settings including emergency room, hospital, medical wards, outpatient programs, outpatient offices, correctional facilities, research substance use programs and teaching programs.
After completing training in 2012 at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center of Shreveport, I began practicing psychiatry. have experience practicing in multiple settings including emergency room, hospital, medical wards, outpatient programs, outpatient offices, correctional facilities, research substance use programs and teaching programs.
(908) 224-4095 View (908) 224-4095
Photo of Ngozi Nkemka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Ngozi Nkemka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Serves Area
I can't say that I have an ideal client, as every client presents with their own unique set of strengths and challenges. Therefore, my goal is not just to help my clients deal with their mental health issues. I provide an environment where they can restore and maintain a healthy state of mind. Graduating from Monmouth University, I have more than 18 years of healthcare and nursing experience. I bring empathy, an easygoing communication style, and sense of humor, making it easy for me to talk to patients and family members.
I can't say that I have an ideal client, as every client presents with their own unique set of strengths and challenges. Therefore, my goal is not just to help my clients deal with their mental health issues. I provide an environment where they can restore and maintain a healthy state of mind. Graduating from Monmouth University, I have more than 18 years of healthcare and nursing experience. I bring empathy, an easygoing communication style, and sense of humor, making it easy for me to talk to patients and family members.
(609) 757-8364 View (609) 757-8364
Photo of Ernst Renondeau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ernst Renondeau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Ernst is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Trained and experience in treating individuals (ages 5-99) struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorders, thoughts disorders and many other mental illnesses. Ernst is a caring and empathetic practitioner who uses pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options to deliver optimal care to clients. Ernst has been in the nursing field for two decades and has provided mental health services to clients at various healthcare settings.
Ernst is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Trained and experience in treating individuals (ages 5-99) struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, bipolar disorders, thoughts disorders and many other mental illnesses. Ernst is a caring and empathetic practitioner who uses pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options to deliver optimal care to clients. Ernst has been in the nursing field for two decades and has provided mental health services to clients at various healthcare settings.
(848) 294-2719 View (848) 294-2719

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Shacarah Fordjour, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Shacarah Fordjour
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Shacarah Fordjour, Founder/Owner of Bright Path Behavioral Health. I'm an Advanced Practice Nurse who holds certifications in both pediatrics and psychiatric mental health and I've been in practice for over 15 years, specializing in treating children and adolescents with behavioral, developmental and mood disorders from ages 3-24. I believe that every individual deserves holistic and integrated care, tailored to their unique needs and challenges. I'm passionate and proactive in addressing the needs of my clients and offering appropriate interventions to promote total health and wellness.
Hello! My name is Shacarah Fordjour, Founder/Owner of Bright Path Behavioral Health. I'm an Advanced Practice Nurse who holds certifications in both pediatrics and psychiatric mental health and I've been in practice for over 15 years, specializing in treating children and adolescents with behavioral, developmental and mood disorders from ages 3-24. I believe that every individual deserves holistic and integrated care, tailored to their unique needs and challenges. I'm passionate and proactive in addressing the needs of my clients and offering appropriate interventions to promote total health and wellness.
(848) 301-1102 View (848) 301-1102
Photo of Nicole Ibe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Nicole Ibe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, AGNP-C, PMHNP
Serves Area
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction or any other behavioral health concern, Nicole is here to help. Her mission is committed to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, navigate life's unique challenges, and develop the skills and resilience needed for a happier and more fulfilling life.
(609) 542-2295 View (609) 542-2295
Photo of Nicole Spano, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Nicole Spano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides medication management to adults 18 and older, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. I received my training at New York University and I have experience treating various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, trauma, and OCD.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides medication management to adults 18 and older, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. I received my training at New York University and I have experience treating various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, trauma, and OCD.
(908) 498-9762 View (908) 498-9762
Photo of Nabintou Bakayoko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Dnp, PMHNP-C
Nabintou Bakayoko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Dnp, PMHNP-C
6 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07102
I believe that lasting wellness is achieved through collaboration. By working together, we can foster positive, sustainable change—body, mind, and spirit. As your partner in this journey, I will guide you with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to your growth. With over 10 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, and life transitions. My approach is comprehensive, utilizing a blend of evidence-based practices including
I believe that lasting wellness is achieved through collaboration. By working together, we can foster positive, sustainable change—body, mind, and spirit. As your partner in this journey, I will guide you with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to your growth. With over 10 years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, and life transitions. My approach is comprehensive, utilizing a blend of evidence-based practices including
(646) 586-0858 View (646) 586-0858
Gail Boyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Millburn, NJ 07041
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and co-occurring substance use — including individuals who haven't found adequate relief through past medication trials. Many of my patients come to me feeling frustrated after years of incomplete treatment, unsure what's still worth trying. Others are new to psychiatric care and want a thoughtful, science-backed starting point. Wherever you are in your journey, the right medication plan should be built around your full life, not just your symptom list.
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and co-occurring substance use — including individuals who haven't found adequate relief through past medication trials. Many of my patients come to me feeling frustrated after years of incomplete treatment, unsure what's still worth trying. Others are new to psychiatric care and want a thoughtful, science-backed starting point. Wherever you are in your journey, the right medication plan should be built around your full life, not just your symptom list.
(862) 430-2928 View (862) 430-2928
Photo of Ubong Udofia - Ofmeme Psychiatric Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Ofmeme Psychiatric Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07104
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorder, let Ofmeme Psychiatric Care provide you with services that are specific to your needs. Dr. Udofia offers comprehensive assessment, medication management and a range of treatment opportunities aimed at restoring patients back to optimal health. At Ofmeme Psychiatric Care, we also provide psychiatric evaluation for bariatric surgery.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, ADHD, PTSD and substance use disorder, let Ofmeme Psychiatric Care provide you with services that are specific to your needs. Dr. Udofia offers comprehensive assessment, medication management and a range of treatment opportunities aimed at restoring patients back to optimal health. At Ofmeme Psychiatric Care, we also provide psychiatric evaluation for bariatric surgery.
(973) 891-4333 View (973) 891-4333
Photo of Lukresia Kawira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lukresia Kawira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Dr. Kawira is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience. She has served in various mental health settings, including Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital, where she served as a charge nurse. Her clinical experience also includes work with NJ Psychotherapy Counseling and the Mental Health Association of NJ as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is highly skilled in the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ADD/ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
Dr. Kawira is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience. She has served in various mental health settings, including Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital, where she served as a charge nurse. Her clinical experience also includes work with NJ Psychotherapy Counseling and the Mental Health Association of NJ as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is highly skilled in the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), ADD/ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
(732) 641-4709 View (732) 641-4709
Photo of David Goldbloom, Psychiatrist, MD
David Goldbloom
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470
Thank you for viewing my profile. I completed a general psychiatry residency program and then additional specialty training in addiction psychiatry. As such, I treat patients with common psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, as well as drug, alcohol, and behavioral addictions. I utilize evidence-based psychotherapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, relapse prevention, and motivational enhancement as well as medication when indicated. I regard mental illness and addiction for the impairments and negative consequences they create in the client's life and work to involve all those affected including clients and their family and friends.
Thank you for viewing my profile. I completed a general psychiatry residency program and then additional specialty training in addiction psychiatry. As such, I treat patients with common psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and PTSD, as well as drug, alcohol, and behavioral addictions. I utilize evidence-based psychotherapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, relapse prevention, and motivational enhancement as well as medication when indicated. I regard mental illness and addiction for the impairments and negative consequences they create in the client's life and work to involve all those affected including clients and their family and friends.
(973) 786-3215 View (973) 786-3215
Photo of Murla Ecclesiaste, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Murla Ecclesiaste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Morristown, NJ 07960
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual-certified in Adult Gerontology. I have a passion for helping others and strive to empower individuals in their journey towards mental well-being.
Greetings! I am Murla, Do you experience lack of motivation, hopelessness and sadness? Do you feel overwhelmed with tasks? Are you dealing with anxiety that leaves you incapacitated? Are mood swings keeping you from reaching your best potential? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. I am also dual-certified in Adult Gerontology. I have a passion for helping others and strive to empower individuals in their journey towards mental well-being.
(973) 566-5839 View (973) 566-5839
Photo of Ann Nolan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Ann Nolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
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 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 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.
(609) 853-5330 View (609) 853-5330
Photo of Suzanne Mallouk - Suzanne Mallouk, M.D., Psychiatrist, MD
Suzanne Mallouk, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Psychiatric Consultation, Medication Management and Second Opinions for Complex Patients
Psychiatric Consultation, Medication Management and Second Opinions for Complex Patients
(646) 502-8545 View (646) 502-8545
Photo of Alyssa Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Alyssa Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the care of children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, ASD, trauma-related disorders, and mood disorders. I provide individualized psychiatric evaluations and treatment planning including medication management with therapeutic support. My approach is warm, collaborative, holistic and developmentally informed—I take the time to truly understand each patient’s strengths and challenges.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the care of children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, ASD, trauma-related disorders, and mood disorders. I provide individualized psychiatric evaluations and treatment planning including medication management with therapeutic support. My approach is warm, collaborative, holistic and developmentally informed—I take the time to truly understand each patient’s strengths and challenges.
(609) 623-5140 View (609) 623-5140
Photo of Wendy Akoh-Brefo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN
Wendy Akoh-Brefo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN
3 Endorsed
Iselin, NJ 08830
Book now to see me within 1-2 weeks! I understand reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety that keeps you up at night, depression that makes daily life feel heavy, or ongoing stress that feels impossible to manage. Perhaps you’ve tried to push through on your own but realize now that you need real support. You are not alone, and you don’t have to do this by yourself. Hello, my name is Wendy, and I’m honored to support you on your mental health journey. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs at every stage of life.
Book now to see me within 1-2 weeks! I understand reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety that keeps you up at night, depression that makes daily life feel heavy, or ongoing stress that feels impossible to manage. Perhaps you’ve tried to push through on your own but realize now that you need real support. You are not alone, and you don’t have to do this by yourself. Hello, my name is Wendy, and I’m honored to support you on your mental health journey. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs at every stage of life.
(732) 290-4075 View (732) 290-4075

See more therapy options for 07073

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07073

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07073 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
86% Bipolar Disorder
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Personality Disorders

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
83% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07073 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Male
25% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07073?

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.