Psychiatrists in 07110

Photo of Carmen d Berrios - Berrios Psychotherapy Associates, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APN
Berrios Psychotherapy Associates
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APN
Nutley, NJ 07110
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have over 40 years of experiencein conducting psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life cycle changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting, mutually respectful and supportive relationship, set goals, build upon strengths to increase confidence self-esteem, and work toward solving issues which often cause people to feel stuck. Medication is a major tool to address the psychiatric diagnoses and addiction.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I have over 40 years of experiencein conducting psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life cycle changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting, mutually respectful and supportive relationship, set goals, build upon strengths to increase confidence self-esteem, and work toward solving issues which often cause people to feel stuck. Medication is a major tool to address the psychiatric diagnoses and addiction.
(201) 380-8542 View (201) 380-8542
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Castaneda-Ardizzone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, RN
Dr. Jennifer Castaneda-Ardizzone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC, RN
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Here to help when your overthinking, stress, anger, or mood swings start affecting your self-confidence and relationships. Through medication management &/or individualized therapy we work together for healing & growth. I have a holistic approach that takes your lifestyle as integral part of healing. I'm Dr. Jen Ardizzone Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide clients with thoughtful, carefully considered use of prescription medications and/or other modalities that will help get to the root of their symptoms.
Here to help when your overthinking, stress, anger, or mood swings start affecting your self-confidence and relationships. Through medication management &/or individualized therapy we work together for healing & growth. I have a holistic approach that takes your lifestyle as integral part of healing. I'm Dr. Jen Ardizzone Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide clients with thoughtful, carefully considered use of prescription medications and/or other modalities that will help get to the root of their symptoms.
(862) 358-4759 View (862) 358-4759
Photo of Lubna Qureshi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC
Lubna Qureshi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
I’m Dr. Lubna Qureshi, a doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 14 years of nursing experience. I earned my Doctorate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Rutgers University. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse populations in both outpatient settings and partial hospitalization programs. I’m deeply passionate about implementing evidence-based practices and adopting a holistic, culturally sensitive, and patient-centered approach to treating mental health disorders in children and adolescents. I specialize in providing medication management services (5-18yo).
I’m Dr. Lubna Qureshi, a doctoral-prepared, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 14 years of nursing experience. I earned my Doctorate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Rutgers University. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse populations in both outpatient settings and partial hospitalization programs. I’m deeply passionate about implementing evidence-based practices and adopting a holistic, culturally sensitive, and patient-centered approach to treating mental health disorders in children and adolescents. I specialize in providing medication management services (5-18yo).
(862) 366-4564 View (862) 366-4564
Photo of Calvin George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Calvin George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Have you ever wondered if what you're feeling is normal? Are you getting forgetful? Do you struggle to concentrate or find it difficult to stay focused? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning. Do you lack motivation to participate in life activities? Are you sometimes tearful or crying for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep? Have you experienced trauma? Are you feeling anxious or on edge? You do not have to face these challenges alone! I can help you! I can provide a hand to support you.
Have you ever wondered if what you're feeling is normal? Are you getting forgetful? Do you struggle to concentrate or find it difficult to stay focused? Or maybe it's hard to get out of bed in the morning. Do you lack motivation to participate in life activities? Are you sometimes tearful or crying for no reason? Is it hard to fall asleep? Have you experienced trauma? Are you feeling anxious or on edge? You do not have to face these challenges alone! I can help you! I can provide a hand to support you.
(973) 847-2475 View (973) 847-2475
Photo of Chinwe Ezeukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chinwe Ezeukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a PMHNP-BC, I bring more than 18 years of healthcare experience. I am highly knowledgeable about diverse acute & chronic mental health concerns. My focus is on the treatment of mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, substance abuse, & chronic mental illness. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, & brief psychotherapeutic intervention for adolescents 13+, adults, and through the lifespan. I believe in creating an individualized plan of care that values client involvement, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice with patients and families.
As a PMHNP-BC, I bring more than 18 years of healthcare experience. I am highly knowledgeable about diverse acute & chronic mental health concerns. My focus is on the treatment of mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, substance abuse, & chronic mental illness. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, & brief psychotherapeutic intervention for adolescents 13+, adults, and through the lifespan. I believe in creating an individualized plan of care that values client involvement, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice with patients and families.
(215) 318-7549 View (215) 318-7549
Photo of Ijeoma M Nwobu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Ijeoma M Nwobu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals who appear put together but struggle internally with anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, or mood instability. Many feel overwhelmed, mentally exhausted, or unable to perform at their full potential despite their efforts. They often seek care after trying to manage things on their own and realizing they need structured support. I provide a collaborative, results-driven approach through comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and medication management when appropriate, helping clients regain focus, stability, and confidence so they can function at their best
My ideal clients are individuals who appear put together but struggle internally with anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, or mood instability. Many feel overwhelmed, mentally exhausted, or unable to perform at their full potential despite their efforts. They often seek care after trying to manage things on their own and realizing they need structured support. I provide a collaborative, results-driven approach through comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and medication management when appropriate, helping clients regain focus, stability, and confidence so they can function at their best
(973) 310-6376 View (973) 310-6376

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Bolanle Ahazie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Bolanle Ahazie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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) 987-6056 View (201) 987-6056
Photo of Paula George, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN
Paula George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, MSN
1 Endorsed
Union, NJ 07083
I am Paula George, a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Felician University, NJ, with high honors (magna cum laude). I completed my Master of Science degree from Rutgers University School of Health-Related Professions in Newark, NJ, and post-certification in Psychiatry from Wilkes University, Pennsylvania.
I am Paula George, a Family Nurse practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am currently licensed to practice in the state of New Jersey. I earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Felician University, NJ, with high honors (magna cum laude). I completed my Master of Science degree from Rutgers University School of Health-Related Professions in Newark, NJ, and post-certification in Psychiatry from Wilkes University, Pennsylvania.
(973) 620-7271 View (973) 620-7271
Rehan Malik
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Clifton, NJ 07013
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
(973) 348-3786 View (973) 348-3786
Photo of Alyssa Miller, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Alyssa Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the care of children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, ASD, trauma-related disorders, and mood disorders. I provide individualized psychiatric evaluations and treatment planning including medication management with therapeutic support. My approach is warm, collaborative, holistic and developmentally informed—I take the time to truly understand each patient’s strengths and challenges.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in the care of children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, ASD, trauma-related disorders, and mood disorders. I provide individualized psychiatric evaluations and treatment planning including medication management with therapeutic support. My approach is warm, collaborative, holistic and developmentally informed—I take the time to truly understand each patient’s strengths and challenges.
(609) 623-5140 View (609) 623-5140
Photo of Marie Youseline Pierre-Fevilien, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Marie Youseline Pierre-Fevilien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
Parsippany, NJ 07054
If you are someone or know someone who is dealing with fear, anxiety, depression, mood changes, inability to focus. You are having a hard time keeping up with your day-to-day, work and family obligations. You are feeling like the walls are closing in, unable to sleep because you are constantly thinking or your mind won't shut down. You don't have to suffer in silence. Help is available. At Stay-Connected Psychiatry and Wellness, helping you reach your optimal health and highest potential is possible.
If you are someone or know someone who is dealing with fear, anxiety, depression, mood changes, inability to focus. You are having a hard time keeping up with your day-to-day, work and family obligations. You are feeling like the walls are closing in, unable to sleep because you are constantly thinking or your mind won't shut down. You don't have to suffer in silence. Help is available. At Stay-Connected Psychiatry and Wellness, helping you reach your optimal health and highest potential is possible.
(862) 858-2820 View (862) 858-2820
Photo of Valsamma Joy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Valsamma Joy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
(551) 733-2495 View (551) 733-2495
Photo of Nancy Frederic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Frederic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Montclair, NJ 07042
My ideal client is open minded and ready to see a positive change in their lives. By working with me, clients gain additional insight and tools to help target specific issues that they may be struggling with.
My ideal client is open minded and ready to see a positive change in their lives. By working with me, clients gain additional insight and tools to help target specific issues that they may be struggling with.
(862) 366-4952 View (862) 366-4952
Photo of Eniola R Omisakin - Owens Health care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Owens Health care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Union, NJ 07083
My ideal client seeks support for issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They desire a safe space, compassionate listening, tailored treatment options, and effective coping strategies. Their goals include finding relief, developing healthier relationships, improving well-being, fostering personal growth and regaining balance and purpose. They choose professional help to gain expert guidance, evidence-based treatments, and a path towards empowerment and a meaningful life.
My ideal client seeks support for issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They desire a safe space, compassionate listening, tailored treatment options, and effective coping strategies. Their goals include finding relief, developing healthier relationships, improving well-being, fostering personal growth and regaining balance and purpose. They choose professional help to gain expert guidance, evidence-based treatments, and a path towards empowerment and a meaningful life.
(908) 521-4869 View (908) 521-4869
Photo of Denise Daley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Denise Daley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cranford, NJ 07016
A nurse practitioner (NP) with 30 years of nursing experience, including work across multiple areas of healthcare, brings a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to managing complex adolescent behavioral and substance use issues like the one described in this case.
A nurse practitioner (NP) with 30 years of nursing experience, including work across multiple areas of healthcare, brings a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to managing complex adolescent behavioral and substance use issues like the one described in this case.
(908) 975-1300 View (908) 975-1300
Photo of Carol Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Carol Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Welcome, I’m glad you’re here. I support adolescents and adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or tired of carrying everything alone. I specialize in anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I listen deeply, ask meaningful questions, and help you create a plan that feels clear, manageable, and truly tailored to your life. Together, we’ll use medication support and evidence-based strategies to build steadier days, emotional relief, and a sense of confidence in your path forward. I’m here to support you with steady, thoughtful care always!
Welcome, I’m glad you’re here. I support adolescents and adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or tired of carrying everything alone. I specialize in anxiety, depression, panic attacks, trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I listen deeply, ask meaningful questions, and help you create a plan that feels clear, manageable, and truly tailored to your life. Together, we’ll use medication support and evidence-based strategies to build steadier days, emotional relief, and a sense of confidence in your path forward. I’m here to support you with steady, thoughtful care always!
(732) 795-5771 View (732) 795-5771
Photo of Doris Chukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C
Doris Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C
3 Endorsed
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
(848) 426-4774 View (848) 426-4774
Photo of Folukemi Fakinlede, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Folukemi Fakinlede
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Woodland Park, NJ 07424
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
I treat adolescent and adult patients who are looking for comprehensive and attentive care. I believe that to help someone, we need to know who that person is and what their individual goals are. Let's get you back to feeling like your full self!
(862) 296-1042 View (862) 296-1042
Photo of Wendy Akoh-Brefo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN
Wendy Akoh-Brefo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANCC-BC, MSN
3 Endorsed
Iselin, NJ 08830
Book now to see me within 1-2 weeks! I understand reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety that keeps you up at night, depression that makes daily life feel heavy, or ongoing stress that feels impossible to manage. Perhaps you’ve tried to push through on your own but realize now that you need real support. You are not alone, and you don’t have to do this by yourself. Hello, my name is Wendy, and I’m honored to support you on your mental health journey. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs at every stage of life.
Book now to see me within 1-2 weeks! I understand reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety that keeps you up at night, depression that makes daily life feel heavy, or ongoing stress that feels impossible to manage. Perhaps you’ve tried to push through on your own but realize now that you need real support. You are not alone, and you don’t have to do this by yourself. Hello, my name is Wendy, and I’m honored to support you on your mental health journey. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs at every stage of life.
(732) 290-4075 View (732) 290-4075
Photo of Alexis Holmes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Alexis Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Serves Area
Looking for expert guidance in managing mental health across the lifespan? I’m Alexis Holmes, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with nearly a decade of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I specialize in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities and combine compassion with in-depth knowledge of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to help you achieve balance, clarity, and well-being.
Looking for expert guidance in managing mental health across the lifespan? I’m Alexis Holmes, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with nearly a decade of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I specialize in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities and combine compassion with in-depth knowledge of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to help you achieve balance, clarity, and well-being.
(908) 866-2910 View (908) 866-2910

See more therapy options for 07110

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07110

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07110 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% ADHD
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Stress
50% Relationship Issues
50% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
83% Aetna
67% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 07110 see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07110?

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.