Psychiatrists in 07093

Photo of Gabriel Essilife, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Gabriel Essilife
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
West New York, NJ 07093
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand the their symptoms and provide good competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together. Through psychotherapy and at times medication management. I strive in truly allowing the client to feel heard, spending time with the client to understand the their symptoms and provide good competent care.
(973) 947-4783 View (973) 947-4783
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
West New York, NJ 07093
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions, including psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care and engage in open and honest communication with their providers.
(973) 542-9471 View (973) 542-9471
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
West New York, NJ 07093
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.
(973) 604-5315 View (973) 604-5315
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
West New York, NJ 07093
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(973) 447-3640 View (973) 447-3640
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
West New York, NJ 07093
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to the patient's needs.
(973) 553-4109 View (973) 553-4109
Photo of Yissell Delvalle, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
Yissell Delvalle
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
West New York, NJ 07093
Dr. Yissell Delvalle is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Board Certified Addiction Medicine Doctor, who graduated from UMDNJ-Rutgers Medical School in Newark. She particularly treats patients with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
Dr. Yissell Delvalle is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Board Certified Addiction Medicine Doctor, who graduated from UMDNJ-Rutgers Medical School in Newark. She particularly treats patients with addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
(201) 864-4897 View (201) 864-4897
Photo of Allen Masry, Psychiatrist, MD
Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
West New York, NJ 07093
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnoses and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(973) 620-7490 View (973) 620-7490
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
West New York, NJ 07093
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 professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including 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 professionally, compassionately, and non-judgmentally. They should also be educated on their treatment options, including medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(973) 240-5198 View (973) 240-5198
Photo of Dr. Fehintola Ogunsakin - PMC- Mental Health Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, APN
PMC- Mental Health Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, APN
Serves Area
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
(908) 840-8295 View (908) 840-8295
Photo of Dr. Tola Ogunsakin - Precious Medical Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC
Precious Medical Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC
Serves Area
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind.
(908) 768-3907 View (908) 768-3907
Photo of Dr. Cassandra Nunez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Dr. Cassandra Nunez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Looking to conquer your mood while maintaining peak performance as a young professional? Ready to elevate your well-being with a comprehensive and holistic approach tailored to your busy lifestyle? In challenging moments, finding solace, and feeling heard is crucial. Lighten your load with compassionate care designed just for you. Irrespective of the obstacles you face, your care should be designed to meet your specific needs.
Looking to conquer your mood while maintaining peak performance as a young professional? Ready to elevate your well-being with a comprehensive and holistic approach tailored to your busy lifestyle? In challenging moments, finding solace, and feeling heard is crucial. Lighten your load with compassionate care designed just for you. Irrespective of the obstacles you face, your care should be designed to meet your specific needs.
(646) 718-6325 View (646) 718-6325
Photo of Antonio Pedulla - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates and accept some insurances
Accepting new patients via telehealth for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out-of-pocket rates and accept some insurances
(551) 282-9272 View (551) 282-9272
Photo of Dr. Henrietta Bannerman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Henrietta Bannerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you're navigating the weight of depression or anxiety, managing the challenges of ADHD or PTSD, or working through the complexities of bipolar or personality disorders, I'm here to provide empathetic, effective care. Together, we can address the unique intersections of your mental health needs, including dual diagnoses or the effects of trauma. I focus on empowering young adults, minorities, and anyone ready to take the courageous step toward meaningful change. With over a decade of experience in psychiatric and emergency nursing, I bring a compassionate and evidence-based approach to your care.
Whether you're navigating the weight of depression or anxiety, managing the challenges of ADHD or PTSD, or working through the complexities of bipolar or personality disorders, I'm here to provide empathetic, effective care. Together, we can address the unique intersections of your mental health needs, including dual diagnoses or the effects of trauma. I focus on empowering young adults, minorities, and anyone ready to take the courageous step toward meaningful change. With over a decade of experience in psychiatric and emergency nursing, I bring a compassionate and evidence-based approach to your care.
(201) 801-3173 View (201) 801-3173
Photo of Bradford Bobrin, Psychiatrist, MD
Bradford Bobrin
Psychiatrist, MD
West New York, NJ 07093
(973) 949-0740 View (973) 949-0740

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Habiba Mzougui - iMatter Wellness , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
iMatter Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Online Only
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, rundown, or stressed more than usual? Do you worry about losing track of your goals? Is it becoming increasingly difficult to handle life's challenges? Has this started to negatively affect the way you live your life? Whether you are new to treatment or considering re-engagement, we will create a plan to achieve your wellness goals. I am a mental health nurse practitioner experienced in treating a variety of mental health condition in children and adults to include but not limited to ADHD, anxiety/depression, school, and behavioral problems.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, rundown, or stressed more than usual? Do you worry about losing track of your goals? Is it becoming increasingly difficult to handle life's challenges? Has this started to negatively affect the way you live your life? Whether you are new to treatment or considering re-engagement, we will create a plan to achieve your wellness goals. I am a mental health nurse practitioner experienced in treating a variety of mental health condition in children and adults to include but not limited to ADHD, anxiety/depression, school, and behavioral problems.
(215) 701-4740 View (215) 701-4740
Photo of Benedicta Akpahu - Benedicta Akpahu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Benedicta Akpahu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am a MSN, APN, and PMHNP-BC, goal-oriented and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 25 years of experience in Psychiatric and mental health as a nurse and she has many years of Nursing home experience working with elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease and other health issues. I obtained my bachelor's from the University of Phoenix and Master of Science with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health throughout life span from Walden University. Benedicta is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC).
I am a MSN, APN, and PMHNP-BC, goal-oriented and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 25 years of experience in Psychiatric and mental health as a nurse and she has many years of Nursing home experience working with elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease and other health issues. I obtained my bachelor's from the University of Phoenix and Master of Science with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health throughout life span from Walden University. Benedicta is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC).
(908) 860-8822 View (908) 860-8822
Photo of Marcel Kaganovskaya, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Marcel Kaganovskaya
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
5 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner I focus on giving you the tools to achieve the best version of yourself. Times may be hard, but I am here to help. I enjoy working with various communities such as LGBTQI+ & see patients of all ages. I assist clients with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention- Deficit/Hyperactive Disorders (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), daily stress and other mental health needs. I accept most insurances in NY & NJ. Feel free to make an appointment today & visit my website at: www.mindfulcognition.com
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner I focus on giving you the tools to achieve the best version of yourself. Times may be hard, but I am here to help. I enjoy working with various communities such as LGBTQI+ & see patients of all ages. I assist clients with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention- Deficit/Hyperactive Disorders (ADHD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), daily stress and other mental health needs. I accept most insurances in NY & NJ. Feel free to make an appointment today & visit my website at: www.mindfulcognition.com
(973) 545-7125 View (973) 545-7125
Photo of Abby Otufale, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Abby Otufale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Abby and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorder, ADHD, Depression and Insomnia & Sleep Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Abby and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorder, ADHD, Depression and Insomnia & Sleep Disorder. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(973) 354-5585 View (973) 354-5585
Jericho Healthcare Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Hello, My name is Dr. Joel Pierre and I welcome you to Jericho Healthcare Services. I hope this message finds you in good health. I am passionate about providing comprehensive, compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges. My career has been dedicated to advancing mental health services through evidence-based practices, client-centered care, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes. I hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) and a Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) 15 years of experience in healthcare.
Hello, My name is Dr. Joel Pierre and I welcome you to Jericho Healthcare Services. I hope this message finds you in good health. I am passionate about providing comprehensive, compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges. My career has been dedicated to advancing mental health services through evidence-based practices, client-centered care, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes. I hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) and a Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) 15 years of experience in healthcare.
(551) 367-1395 View (551) 367-1395
Photo of Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Ashley Anderson - Next Openings: One Week
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Online Only
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
Hello! I am Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, APRN. I believe in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches and I strongly feel that building a connection with patients is a vital aspect of providing care. I use evidence-based practices with a focus on person-centered care and optimal clinical outcomes targeting quality of life, maximizing wellness, and recovery. I take pride in supporting my patients through difficult mental health symptoms, and I bring a knowledgeable and compassionate perspective to patient care. I like when my patients ask questions, and I'm always happy to address their concerns!
(848) 208-7532 View (848) 208-7532

See more therapy options for 07093

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07093

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in 07093 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
86% Trauma and PTSD
79% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
71% Medication Management
64% Addiction

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
93% Cigna and Evernorth
93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07093 see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07093?

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.