Psychiatrists in 07080

Welcome to Serenity Psychiatric & Counseling Services where we are dedicated to promoting mental wellness. Our team of highly experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is committed to empowering individuals, motivating them to build resilience, overcome challenges, and cultivate hope. We offer comprehensive services that treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders. We can help you in reaching your mental health goals.
Welcome to Serenity Psychiatric & Counseling Services where we are dedicated to promoting mental wellness. Our team of highly experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is committed to empowering individuals, motivating them to build resilience, overcome challenges, and cultivate hope. We offer comprehensive services that treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders. We can help you in reaching your mental health goals.

Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.

Barbara Njuguna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Serenity Psychiatric & Counseling Services is dedicated to promoting mental wellness. Our team of highly experienced dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is committed to empowering individuals, motivating them to build resilience, overcome challenges, and cultivate hope. We offer comprehensive services that treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders. We can help you in reaching your mental health goals.
Serenity Psychiatric & Counseling Services is dedicated to promoting mental wellness. Our team of highly experienced dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners is committed to empowering individuals, motivating them to build resilience, overcome challenges, and cultivate hope. We offer comprehensive services that treat mental health conditions and substance use disorders. We can help you in reaching your mental health goals.

Book with me now by clicking on my website! Are you looking for compassionate and personalized mental health care? Welcome to my practice! I'm Laura Nyabeta, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals achieve their best mental health. With more than 5 years of experience in diverse healthcare settings, I bring a comprehensive approach to my practice in New Jersey.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Are you looking for compassionate and personalized mental health care? Welcome to my practice! I'm Laura Nyabeta, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals achieve their best mental health. With more than 5 years of experience in diverse healthcare settings, I bring a comprehensive approach to my practice in New Jersey.

How I Will Help: A Personal Message from Harpreet Kaur, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC
Seeking support for your mental health is a courageous and empowering step—and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way. My name is Harpreet Kaur, and I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
I believe healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood. In our work together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space where your voice matters.
How I Will Help: A Personal Message from Harpreet Kaur, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC
Seeking support for your mental health is a courageous and empowering step—and I’m here to walk alongside you every step of the way. My name is Harpreet Kaur, and I’m a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
I believe healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood. In our work together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space where your voice matters.

You’re tired of not doing your best at school, relationships and work or in life. You know you can do better, and you feel guilty and ashamed that it’s not happening. Promise after promise to improve. But nothing ever changes.Maybe it’s the ADHD and or the anxiety, and or the depression/mood disorders and or the trauma you’ve suffered. Please call today. First, I create a nonjudgmental and safe environment to form rapport. Letting you take charge of your mental health by providing information that enables informed decisions.Then assess mental health needs, develop healthcare plan, implement treatment and keep re-evaluating progress.
You’re tired of not doing your best at school, relationships and work or in life. You know you can do better, and you feel guilty and ashamed that it’s not happening. Promise after promise to improve. But nothing ever changes.Maybe it’s the ADHD and or the anxiety, and or the depression/mood disorders and or the trauma you’ve suffered. Please call today. First, I create a nonjudgmental and safe environment to form rapport. Letting you take charge of your mental health by providing information that enables informed decisions.Then assess mental health needs, develop healthcare plan, implement treatment and keep re-evaluating progress.

I am Miriam, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with experience treating adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more. I believe in a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health care, focusing on both the mind and body to promote overall well-being.
I am Miriam, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with experience treating adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and more. I believe in a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health care, focusing on both the mind and body to promote overall well-being.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

With extensive experience in conditions like bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, I bring a whole-person approach to treatment, addressing not only symptoms but also your unique lifestyle, values, and environment. From seniors and students to LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and other underrepresented groups, I understand the importance of feeling seen and respected. I integrate a range of practices to foster resilience and self-awareness, including the benefits of physical activity, mindful eating, the healing power of nature, and meaningful hobbies.
With extensive experience in conditions like bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, I bring a whole-person approach to treatment, addressing not only symptoms but also your unique lifestyle, values, and environment. From seniors and students to LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and other underrepresented groups, I understand the importance of feeling seen and respected. I integrate a range of practices to foster resilience and self-awareness, including the benefits of physical activity, mindful eating, the healing power of nature, and meaningful hobbies.

Accepting New Patients Across New Jersey and Washington State! Are you grappling with feelings of forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or constant distractions? Do you find it hard to muster the motivation to face the day, feeling tearful without reason, or struggling with restless nights? If trauma has left you feeling anxious and on edge, remember, you are not alone.
Accepting New Patients Across New Jersey and Washington State! Are you grappling with feelings of forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or constant distractions? Do you find it hard to muster the motivation to face the day, feeling tearful without reason, or struggling with restless nights? If trauma has left you feeling anxious and on edge, remember, you are not alone.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. I prioritize holistic care and therapeutic relationships, aiming to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where patients feel valued and understood. My practice is evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and collaborative, tailored to each person's unique needs and goals. I advocate for patients' rights and strive to reduce mental health stigma, viewing my role not just as a profession, but as a calling to bring hope, healing, and empowerment to those I serve.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. I prioritize holistic care and therapeutic relationships, aiming to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where patients feel valued and understood. My practice is evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and collaborative, tailored to each person's unique needs and goals. I advocate for patients' rights and strive to reduce mental health stigma, viewing my role not just as a profession, but as a calling to bring hope, healing, and empowerment to those I serve.

I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery and healing that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care. Licensed in PA and NJ
I have devoted my time caring for patients as a dual certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to create an impact in the health and mental well being of individuals in diverse communities. By providing unconditional acceptance of their symptoms in a stigma free-environment and encouraging self-advocacy, I have been able to encourage physical, emotional, and mental health recovery. Through encouragement, acceptance, and advocacy my patients have found recovery and healing that is meaningful and attainable, thereby influencing their personal desire for health promotion and self care. Licensed in PA and NJ

I offer caring, professional, evaluation and treatment of a wide variety of mental health issues including severe depression, anxiety, and addiction issues, using medication and/or psychotherapy.
Whether with the help of cutting edge medical treatments including suboxone, ketamine, and ssri's, or insightful psychotherapy, I can help you feel better quickly, and get back to being productive and enjoying your life.
I offer caring, professional, evaluation and treatment of a wide variety of mental health issues including severe depression, anxiety, and addiction issues, using medication and/or psychotherapy.
Whether with the help of cutting edge medical treatments including suboxone, ketamine, and ssri's, or insightful psychotherapy, I can help you feel better quickly, and get back to being productive and enjoying your life.

Maxxine Kraemer-Jimenez - Psychiatric Nurse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
1 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric assessment and medication management for patients of all ages, with a range of psychiatric diagnoses. Throughout my career in healthcare, I have had the opportunity to work with an array of mental health disorders in a variety of settings including in the emergency room, outpatient, and inpatient units. I have a great passion for mental health, and I understand the importance of providing quality, comprehensive, and compassionate patient-centered care.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric assessment and medication management for patients of all ages, with a range of psychiatric diagnoses. Throughout my career in healthcare, I have had the opportunity to work with an array of mental health disorders in a variety of settings including in the emergency room, outpatient, and inpatient units. I have a great passion for mental health, and I understand the importance of providing quality, comprehensive, and compassionate patient-centered care.

I specialize in supporting individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges—or those simply in need of someone to talk to. Whether you're struggling with stress, adjusting to life transitions, or finding it difficult to maintain healthy relationships, you're not alone. You may also be coping with anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, or other emotional difficulties that feel overwhelming at times.
If any of this resonates with you, it may be time to seek professional support. I’m here to provide compassionate, judgment-free care tailored to your unique experience. Let’s explore whether I’m the right fit to help you!
I specialize in supporting individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges—or those simply in need of someone to talk to. Whether you're struggling with stress, adjusting to life transitions, or finding it difficult to maintain healthy relationships, you're not alone. You may also be coping with anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, or other emotional difficulties that feel overwhelming at times.
If any of this resonates with you, it may be time to seek professional support. I’m here to provide compassionate, judgment-free care tailored to your unique experience. Let’s explore whether I’m the right fit to help you!

Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments are by cash only - No insurance accepted
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments are by cash only - No insurance accepted

My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences.
For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qbtech Testing .
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences.
For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qbtech Testing .

Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with persistent sadness, or experiencing mood swings that impact your daily life? You’re not alone, and support is available. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with persistent sadness, or experiencing mood swings that impact your daily life? You’re not alone, and support is available. As a psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.
If you are someone or know someone who is dealing with fear, anxiety, depression, mood changes, inability to focus. You are having a hard time keeping up with your day-to-day, work and family obligations. You are feeling like the walls are closing in, unable to sleep because you are constantly thinking or your mind won't shut down. You don't have to suffer in silence. I can help you!
If you are someone or know someone who is dealing with fear, anxiety, depression, mood changes, inability to focus. You are having a hard time keeping up with your day-to-day, work and family obligations. You are feeling like the walls are closing in, unable to sleep because you are constantly thinking or your mind won't shut down. You don't have to suffer in silence. I can help you!

Nurse Practitioner Susan Philcox is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner who treats individuals across the lifespan with mental health disorders. Susan has more than 20 years experience in the nursing field. Susan specializes in the treatment of adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. Susan tailors treatment plans to the specific needs of her patients.
Nurse Practitioner Susan Philcox is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and family nurse practitioner who treats individuals across the lifespan with mental health disorders. Susan has more than 20 years experience in the nursing field. Susan specializes in the treatment of adults with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and other psychiatric disorders. Susan tailors treatment plans to the specific needs of her patients.

Divine Mental Healthcare focuses on the holistic care of patients. I have more than 12 years of experience as a doctorate graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. I strive to connect, support and balance the mental and physical needs of my patients to help them achieve a healthy whole person. In providing compassionate care to patients, I treat every patient as unique and work together with each patient to develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve their health goals. We are available to help any patient at any time. Just take the bold step and call 9084164288.
Divine Mental Healthcare focuses on the holistic care of patients. I have more than 12 years of experience as a doctorate graduate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. I strive to connect, support and balance the mental and physical needs of my patients to help them achieve a healthy whole person. In providing compassionate care to patients, I treat every patient as unique and work together with each patient to develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve their health goals. We are available to help any patient at any time. Just take the bold step and call 9084164288.
See more therapy options for 07080
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07080
< 10
Psychiatrists in 07080 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | ADHD |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
57% | Grief |
57% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
57% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield |
How Psychiatrists in 07080 see their clients
57% | Online Only | |
43% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
86% | Female | |
14% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07080?
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.