Psychiatrists in 07101

Photo of Theresa Webster, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Webster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
Are you tired of your mental illness defining you? You may be unsure of the way forward, feeling anxious, fearful, angry, and hopelessness. You might not know how your mental illness overcame you. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to stop masking your suffering but instead break through it. You are ready to know stability. Most of all, you are ready to live your best life. Clients come to me looking for a provider who understands there is not one pathway to becoming overwhelmed by mental illness and the journey to wellness is not one size fits all.
(406) 413-9879 View (406) 413-9879
Photo of Jacquelyn Zagone - BirchWood Health - Jacquelyn Zagone, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
BirchWood Health - Jacquelyn Zagone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care. With a deep understanding of the complexities of psychiatric conditions, I employ a patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are at the forefront of their care plan. Find out more about me and my practice at www.BirchWood.Health
(862) 356-6293 View (862) 356-6293
Photo of Dr. Marcela Pekarova, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Marcela Pekarova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101
I am accepting new patients. Available weekends and evenings. My specialty women health, Bipolar, depression, anxiety and eating disorder. I am very passionate about helping my patients to get better and I believe that psychiatric care should be affordable and evidence-based. I have been practicing since 2016. I offer both in-person and telehealth visits. I believe that our body and mind are strongly connected. I don't have an ideal patient except that they are open and willing to change. I believe that every person has the potential to get better!
I am accepting new patients. Available weekends and evenings. My specialty women health, Bipolar, depression, anxiety and eating disorder. I am very passionate about helping my patients to get better and I believe that psychiatric care should be affordable and evidence-based. I have been practicing since 2016. I offer both in-person and telehealth visits. I believe that our body and mind are strongly connected. I don't have an ideal patient except that they are open and willing to change. I believe that every person has the potential to get better!
(973) 791-9271 View (973) 791-9271
Photo of Mary May Montenegro - Euthymia Mental Health Services , FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Euthymia Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Let's work together for you to reach a goal which is to achieve a tranquil mental state or mood. We will have a thorough discussion regarding your issues and concerns about your mental health and we will come up with a solution and intervention not only beneficial to your mental health but also to your overall well- being.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Let's work together for you to reach a goal which is to achieve a tranquil mental state or mood. We will have a thorough discussion regarding your issues and concerns about your mental health and we will come up with a solution and intervention not only beneficial to your mental health but also to your overall well- being.
(609) 476-4736 View (609) 476-4736
Photo of Jenika Miles - Reservoir Health Psychiatry - Jenika L. Miles, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Reservoir Health Psychiatry - Jenika L. Miles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health, regardless of their specific condition. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other symptoms. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can develop coping skills and explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to provide personalized treatment and help them achieve their goals, whether that's managing their symptoms or feeling more content in daily life.
My ideal client is motivated to improve their mental health, regardless of their specific condition. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other symptoms. They want a safe, supportive environment where they can develop coping skills and explore their thoughts and feelings. My goal is to provide personalized treatment and help them achieve their goals, whether that's managing their symptoms or feeling more content in daily life.
(856) 644-2685 View (856) 644-2685
Photo of Andrew Wilbur, MD, Psychiatrist
Andrew Wilbur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
Dr. Wilbur is a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist in Adult and Addiction Psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate degree in Public Health Studies at Johns Hopkins University and his medical education at the UMass Chan Medical School. Dr. Wilbur completed his psychiatry residency training and addiction psychiatry fellowship training at Yale School of Medicine. His practice focuses on medication management, typically offered in conjunction with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Wilbur is a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist in Adult and Addiction Psychiatry. He completed his undergraduate degree in Public Health Studies at Johns Hopkins University and his medical education at the UMass Chan Medical School. Dr. Wilbur completed his psychiatry residency training and addiction psychiatry fellowship training at Yale School of Medicine. His practice focuses on medication management, typically offered in conjunction with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
(856) 556-3934 View (856) 556-3934
Photo of Elizabeth (Beth) Teal, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elizabeth (Beth) Teal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
Focusing on medication prescribing and management, I have experience utilizing non narcotic, non addicting medications to treat anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sleep disturbance/insomnia, and in the non stimulant treatment of ADHD/ADD. Due to DEA regulations I cannot prescribe or continue stimulant medications such as Adderall, vyanse, concerta, ritalin.
Focusing on medication prescribing and management, I have experience utilizing non narcotic, non addicting medications to treat anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sleep disturbance/insomnia, and in the non stimulant treatment of ADHD/ADD. Due to DEA regulations I cannot prescribe or continue stimulant medications such as Adderall, vyanse, concerta, ritalin.
(640) 500-2017 View (640) 500-2017
Photo of Janet Bosede Akilo, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Bosede Akilo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm a board certified Psych NP with over 10 years of experience in meeting the needs of my clients. My specific focus includes diagnosing, treating and preventing mental, emotional and behavioral disorders across the life span. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. I provide holistic and patient centered care by partnering with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
Welcome! I'm a board certified Psych NP with over 10 years of experience in meeting the needs of my clients. My specific focus includes diagnosing, treating and preventing mental, emotional and behavioral disorders across the life span. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction treatment. I provide holistic and patient centered care by partnering with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
(908) 888-9067 View (908) 888-9067
Kevin Obi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
We are navigating a different world. Sometimes we need a professional to help guide us along the way. Here to help Navigate your journey
(201) 801-4431 View (201) 801-4431
Photo of Dr. Leydi Marcela Espinosa, DNP, FNP-c, PMHNP-c, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Leydi Marcela Espinosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-c, PMHNP-c
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated nurse practitioner with a doctoral degree, specializing in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I take a holistic approach to care, customizing treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I am a dedicated nurse practitioner with a doctoral degree, specializing in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I take a holistic approach to care, customizing treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(551) 373-9464 View (551) 373-9464
Photo of Stella Okah, DNP, MSN, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stella Okah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07101
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
(201) 972-5906 View (201) 972-5906
Photo of Aphie G Amams - St. Charles Medical Consult, DNP    , APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
St. Charles Medical Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101
Evaluation and follow ups is now available vis Telehealth, due to the PANDEMIC. St Charles Medical Consult is dedicated to helping clients with their Mental Health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, customized individual treatment plans, medication management and referrals to appropriate psychiatric services. We help our clients to function better in the quickest possible time. We team up with our clients in working through their issues collaboratively. We accept clients for Suboxone treatment. Call for immediate appointment. Call or Email St, Charles Med Consult, for a free consultation now - (973) 564-0815.
Evaluation and follow ups is now available vis Telehealth, due to the PANDEMIC. St Charles Medical Consult is dedicated to helping clients with their Mental Health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, customized individual treatment plans, medication management and referrals to appropriate psychiatric services. We help our clients to function better in the quickest possible time. We team up with our clients in working through their issues collaboratively. We accept clients for Suboxone treatment. Call for immediate appointment. Call or Email St, Charles Med Consult, for a free consultation now - (973) 564-0815.
(973) 564-0815 View (973) 564-0815
Photo of Christine Naungayan - Total Wellness Center, M, D, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Total Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, M, D
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101
Total Wellness Center provides expert mental health care through a comprehensive range of services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy, and medication management. Our team of experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners and therapists tailors each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of every patient. Whether in-person or via telehealth, we prioritize compassionate care, ensuring that patients feel supported on their journey to improved mental well-being. We accept major insurance plans and offer private pay options.
Total Wellness Center provides expert mental health care through a comprehensive range of services, including individual therapy, couples therapy, marriage counseling, family therapy, and medication management. Our team of experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners and therapists tailors each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of every patient. Whether in-person or via telehealth, we prioritize compassionate care, ensuring that patients feel supported on their journey to improved mental well-being. We accept major insurance plans and offer private pay options.
(862) 263-7056 View (862) 263-7056
Photo of Adetutu L Soneye, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adetutu L Soneye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience in neuro-psychiatric medicine, I am dedicated to offering holistic and comprehensive mental health care. My approach emphasizes quality treatment across the lifespan, focusing on diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. I am committed to integrating evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of each individual's unique needs to provide exceptional care.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a decade of experience in neuro-psychiatric medicine, I am dedicated to offering holistic and comprehensive mental health care. My approach emphasizes quality treatment across the lifespan, focusing on diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions in children, adolescents, and adults. I am committed to integrating evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of each individual's unique needs to provide exceptional care.
(848) 266-6174 View (848) 266-6174
BirchWood Health - Lily Tung
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my heart is fully committed to nurturing and providing gentle, comprehensive mental health care. I deeply empathize with the intricate challenges of psychiatric conditions and passionately embrace a patient-centered approach in my treatment plans. My focus is always on recognizing and honoring the unique journey and needs of each individual. I warmly invite you to learn more about my compassionate practice and how we can walk together towards healing at www.BirchWood.Health.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my heart is fully committed to nurturing and providing gentle, comprehensive mental health care. I deeply empathize with the intricate challenges of psychiatric conditions and passionately embrace a patient-centered approach in my treatment plans. My focus is always on recognizing and honoring the unique journey and needs of each individual. I warmly invite you to learn more about my compassionate practice and how we can walk together towards healing at www.BirchWood.Health.
(862) 352-7930 View (862) 352-7930
Photo of Maria Escobar, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Escobar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101
At MMC Psychiatric Care and Wellness, I understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, my practice is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses your specific needs. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a broad perspective to treatment, employing an integrative approach that combines traditional therapeutic methods with holistic strategies for a personalized and effective plan of care.
At MMC Psychiatric Care and Wellness, I understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, my practice is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses your specific needs. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a broad perspective to treatment, employing an integrative approach that combines traditional therapeutic methods with holistic strategies for a personalized and effective plan of care.
(908) 291-5020 View (908) 291-5020
Photo of Dr. Chizoba O Mbachu, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Chizoba O Mbachu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, APRN, BSN
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
My ideal client is anyone who is taking the leap into handling their own mental health and trying to better themselves. I primarily work with people who have hard-hitting diagnosis' or issues that they feel they need an elevated level of care for. Essentially, as long as you looking for help; I am here to help.
My ideal client is anyone who is taking the leap into handling their own mental health and trying to better themselves. I primarily work with people who have hard-hitting diagnosis' or issues that they feel they need an elevated level of care for. Essentially, as long as you looking for help; I am here to help.
(856) 388-5435 View (856) 388-5435
Photo of Callister Ibe - Future Hope Mental Care of NJ, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Future Hope Mental Care of NJ
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101
I want clients to be able to have an open non-judgmental area to tackle their emotions, gain insights, and develop an understanding that creates changes.
I want clients to be able to have an open non-judgmental area to tackle their emotions, gain insights, and develop an understanding that creates changes.
(609) 566-8884 View (609) 566-8884
Chioma Ugo-Ogbuewu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
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.
(856) 431-5792 View (856) 431-5792
Photo of Olga Gonzalez Byrne, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, ARNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Olga Gonzalez Byrne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, ARNP
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07101  (Online Only)
Olga’s style of practice is focus on holistic approach in which she includes traditional Western Medicine, stress management, lifestyle modification, balanced nutrition, exercises, vitamins, and all is Evidence based practice. Olga believes in the connection of soul, body, spirit and mind; therefore, she focuses on the healing of the individuals a whole in an effort to bring homeostasis to the person’s life.
Olga’s style of practice is focus on holistic approach in which she includes traditional Western Medicine, stress management, lifestyle modification, balanced nutrition, exercises, vitamins, and all is Evidence based practice. Olga believes in the connection of soul, body, spirit and mind; therefore, she focuses on the healing of the individuals a whole in an effort to bring homeostasis to the person’s life.
(973) 587-8649 View (973) 587-8649
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07101

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 07101 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
95% Depression
86% Trauma and PTSD
86% Bipolar Disorder
81% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
76% ADHD
62% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Aetna
75% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07101 see their clients

61% Online Only
39% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07101?

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.