Psychiatrists in 07090

Photo of JoAnne Piaggio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, B-C
JoAnne Piaggio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, B-C
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am excited to utilize my experience to assist you, my client, in achieving and maintaining your optimum mental health. Together, we can identify and overcome obstacles that are holding you back from living your best life.
I am excited to utilize my experience to assist you, my client, in achieving and maintaining your optimum mental health. Together, we can identify and overcome obstacles that are holding you back from living your best life.
(848) 222-8793 View (848) 222-8793
Photo of Eve Kessler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Eve Kessler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Westfield, NJ 07090
Mental health care is my profession and passion. With years of experience in the psychiatric field, I am a strong believer in compassion, accessibility, and high standards of care. Throughout my career in health care, I have worked with a diverse patient population. I strive to build trust, and help clients take control of their mental health through medication management and therapeutic support. I am happy to provide care via in-person visits or telepsychiatry. My focus is to ensure that patient dignity, cultural sensitivity, and clinical quality as part of the team at Embrace Psychiatric Wellness Center in Westfield, NJ.
Mental health care is my profession and passion. With years of experience in the psychiatric field, I am a strong believer in compassion, accessibility, and high standards of care. Throughout my career in health care, I have worked with a diverse patient population. I strive to build trust, and help clients take control of their mental health through medication management and therapeutic support. I am happy to provide care via in-person visits or telepsychiatry. My focus is to ensure that patient dignity, cultural sensitivity, and clinical quality as part of the team at Embrace Psychiatric Wellness Center in Westfield, NJ.
(908) 895-6140 View (908) 895-6140
Photo of Shavar Chase, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Shavar Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Dr. Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I founded my practice to specialize in treating the family including children, adolescents, adults and older adults with or who believe they may have difficulty with Psychiatric and Mental Health challenges. I have practiced as a Registered Nurse in an array of specialties for over 34 years. I also have specialized in Psychiatric, Mental Health and Addictions treatment for the past 18 years. As a solution focused Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner, it's my goal to assist you in reducing symptoms that impact your ability to function at home, at work, at school or at play.
Dr. Shavar Chase, DNP, PMHNP-BC. I founded my practice to specialize in treating the family including children, adolescents, adults and older adults with or who believe they may have difficulty with Psychiatric and Mental Health challenges. I have practiced as a Registered Nurse in an array of specialties for over 34 years. I also have specialized in Psychiatric, Mental Health and Addictions treatment for the past 18 years. As a solution focused Psychiatric and Mental Health Advanced Nurse Practitioner, it's my goal to assist you in reducing symptoms that impact your ability to function at home, at work, at school or at play.
(908) 224-3649 View (908) 224-3649
Photo of Dr. Leopold Bolona, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Leopold Bolona
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Dr. Leopold Bolona is a compassionate psychiatrist in private practice in Westfield and Wall Township NJ seeing adults only at this time. The practice has 24 providers including Nurse Practitioners and Therapists offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment for a variety of issues such as: Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, addiction and more.The practice offers both in person and telehealth. All offices offer Genetic testing and Neuropsych testing. Both offices also offers both TMS and Spravato treatments.
Dr. Leopold Bolona is a compassionate psychiatrist in private practice in Westfield and Wall Township NJ seeing adults only at this time. The practice has 24 providers including Nurse Practitioners and Therapists offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment for a variety of issues such as: Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, addiction and more.The practice offers both in person and telehealth. All offices offer Genetic testing and Neuropsych testing. Both offices also offers both TMS and Spravato treatments.
(732) 440-3179 View (732) 440-3179
Photo of Clifford Goldman, Psychiatrist, MD
Clifford Goldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am an adult psychiatrist in Westfield and Hoboken. I graduated with honors and majored in the Biological Sciences at The Johns Hopkins University. I optained my medical degree at NYU. My psychiatric training took place at Mount Sinai Hospital and then I served as chief resident and then unit chief on the teaching unit of the Bronx VA Hospital. I was medical director at Fair Oaks Hospital and then Charter Behavioral in Summit. I am a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, I am providing telepsychiatry to all my patients.
I am an adult psychiatrist in Westfield and Hoboken. I graduated with honors and majored in the Biological Sciences at The Johns Hopkins University. I optained my medical degree at NYU. My psychiatric training took place at Mount Sinai Hospital and then I served as chief resident and then unit chief on the teaching unit of the Bronx VA Hospital. I was medical director at Fair Oaks Hospital and then Charter Behavioral in Summit. I am a Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, I am providing telepsychiatry to all my patients.
(908) 543-7935 View (908) 543-7935
Photo of Candice Chamberss, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNE
Candice Chamberss
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN, FNE
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. My practice focuses on evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related concerns. I believe in a collaborative approach combining evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy, lifestyle interventions, and coordination of care. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered in their mental health journey.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. My practice focuses on evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related concerns. I believe in a collaborative approach combining evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy, lifestyle interventions, and coordination of care. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered in their mental health journey.
(908) 493-6931 View (908) 493-6931
Photo of Simran Kaur, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Simran Kaur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Simran Kaur is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Evidenced based guidelines combined with clinical expertise, clinical judgement and perception to assist patients with anxiety and ADHD.
Simran Kaur is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Evidenced based guidelines combined with clinical expertise, clinical judgement and perception to assist patients with anxiety and ADHD.
(908) 520-2994 View (908) 520-2994
Photo of Daniel Garrett Finch, Psychiatrist, MD, PMH-C, FAPA
Daniel Garrett Finch
Psychiatrist, MD, PMH-C, FAPA
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I treat adults with all mental health issue including depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and others. I do so with empathy and listening to the needs and concerns of my patients. I specialize in perinatal/reproductive psychiatry which is the care of women and families trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or up to two years postpartum. With 15 years of experience, I am well-equipped to treat all mental health conditions.
I treat adults with all mental health issue including depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and others. I do so with empathy and listening to the needs and concerns of my patients. I specialize in perinatal/reproductive psychiatry which is the care of women and families trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or up to two years postpartum. With 15 years of experience, I am well-equipped to treat all mental health conditions.
(908) 913-7536 View (908) 913-7536
Photo of Kathryn Groll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNM
Kathryn Groll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, CNM
8 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
At the core of Vineyard Psychiatry is a profound commitment to patient-centered care. The practice understands that mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor but a deeply personal journey. This commitment translates into an environment where patients are not merely recipients of care but active participants in their own healing process. Here, patients are heard, their perspectives respected, and their unique stories considered with the utmost reverence. www.vineyardpsychnp.com
At the core of Vineyard Psychiatry is a profound commitment to patient-centered care. The practice understands that mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor but a deeply personal journey. This commitment translates into an environment where patients are not merely recipients of care but active participants in their own healing process. Here, patients are heard, their perspectives respected, and their unique stories considered with the utmost reverence. www.vineyardpsychnp.com
(908) 259-6476 View (908) 259-6476
Photo of Ashley Blake Strongwater, Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, PMH-C
Ashley Blake Strongwater
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am dedicated to providing warm, skillful, compassionate, and personalized care to each patient for a variety of mental health conditions via a combination of therapy and medication when indicated. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of successful treatment. I work diligently to create a safe, stigma-free, and welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, feelings, and to increase your general wellbeing using a whole-body approach. I tailor my treatment approach collaboratively with you to meet your unique needs and goals.
I am dedicated to providing warm, skillful, compassionate, and personalized care to each patient for a variety of mental health conditions via a combination of therapy and medication when indicated. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of successful treatment. I work diligently to create a safe, stigma-free, and welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable exploring your thoughts, feelings, and to increase your general wellbeing using a whole-body approach. I tailor my treatment approach collaboratively with you to meet your unique needs and goals.
(908) 308-4500 View (908) 308-4500
Photo of Robert Moreines, Psychiatrist, MD
Robert Moreines
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am a member of the American Psychiatric Association, NJ Psychiatric Asso. and Tri County Psychiatric Asso. I am Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. I have published articles and book chapters in the fields of psychiatric diagnosis, treatment of mood disorders and Seasonal Affective Disorder. I was chief of Adult Psychiatry and Associate Medical Director at Fair Oaks Hospital, where I treated the most ill patients. I have been in outpatient private practice since 1992.
I am a member of the American Psychiatric Association, NJ Psychiatric Asso. and Tri County Psychiatric Asso. I am Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. I have published articles and book chapters in the fields of psychiatric diagnosis, treatment of mood disorders and Seasonal Affective Disorder. I was chief of Adult Psychiatry and Associate Medical Director at Fair Oaks Hospital, where I treated the most ill patients. I have been in outpatient private practice since 1992.
(908) 543-7272 View (908) 543-7272
Photo of Pearl Louie, Psychiatrist, MD
Pearl Louie
Psychiatrist, MD
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am also among one of the first psychiatrists in the country to also be board certified in the subspecialty of Psychosomatic Medicine. Prior to joining the Westfield practice, I was an instructor in psychiatry and clinical fellow on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. I graduated cum laude from Columbia University in NYC. I completed a medical psychiatry fellowship at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston as well as a research fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. Due to COVID-19 I am now providing telepsychiatry.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am also among one of the first psychiatrists in the country to also be board certified in the subspecialty of Psychosomatic Medicine. Prior to joining the Westfield practice, I was an instructor in psychiatry and clinical fellow on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. I graduated cum laude from Columbia University in NYC. I completed a medical psychiatry fellowship at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston as well as a research fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. Due to COVID-19 I am now providing telepsychiatry.
(908) 913-6576 View (908) 913-6576
Photo of Pattie James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Pattie James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
(856) 666-7604 View (856) 666-7604
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(856) 363-3075 View (856) 363-3075
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(856) 446-8981 View (856) 446-8981
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
(844) 959-1689 View (844) 959-1689
Photo of Khushbu Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Khushbu Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Khushbu Shah is a trained Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She completed her fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Jersey and her residency training in general psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York. She has extensive experience working with mood and anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, attention deficit hyperactive disorders, autism spectrum disorders, learning disorders, and many others. She has worked closely with school-based mental health, with a special interest in providing current, innovative treatments.
Dr. Khushbu Shah is a trained Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist. She completed her fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Jersey and her residency training in general psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York. She has extensive experience working with mood and anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, attention deficit hyperactive disorders, autism spectrum disorders, learning disorders, and many others. She has worked closely with school-based mental health, with a special interest in providing current, innovative treatments.
(848) 315-1829 View (848) 315-1829
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(856) 619-8286 View (856) 619-8286
Photo of Dr. Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Dr. Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM, FACLP
Serves Area
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
I don't have an ideal client, except that they are open to change. I will see anyone who asks for help, but I expect they are or will be willing to change. I attempt to understand the patient as a whole, from birth to the present, from a medical, psychological, familial, and neurological perspective. I am focused on practical solutions and removing emotional blocks to making progress. I speak directly and am primarily concerned about the relationship with my patients. I am an avid advocate for my patients.
(856) 579-6475 View (856) 579-6475
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(856) 544-2623 View (856) 544-2623

See more therapy options for 07090

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07090

50+

Average cost per session

$187

Psychiatrists in 07090 who prioritize treating:

98% Depression
98% Anxiety
81% Bipolar Disorder
74% Medication Management
70% ADHD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
59% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Aetna
91% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
88% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07090 see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07090?

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.