Psychiatrists in 07112

Photo of Pius Efobi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC, MSN
Pius Efobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC, MSN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Let’s start with an open and honest conversation about what you’re looking for. You’ll also have the chance to ask me any questions about my professional background, training, and experience, as well as how we can work together to help you function more effectively in your daily life.
Let’s start with an open and honest conversation about what you’re looking for. You’ll also have the chance to ask me any questions about my professional background, training, and experience, as well as how we can work together to help you function more effectively in your daily life.
(848) 360-4322 View (848) 360-4322
Photo of Felix Geller, Psychiatrist, MD
Felix Geller
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
After completing training in 2012 at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center of Shreveport, I began practicing psychiatry. have experience practicing in multiple settings including emergency room, hospital, medical wards, outpatient programs, outpatient offices, correctional facilities, research substance use programs and teaching programs.
After completing training in 2012 at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center of Shreveport, I began practicing psychiatry. have experience practicing in multiple settings including emergency room, hospital, medical wards, outpatient programs, outpatient offices, correctional facilities, research substance use programs and teaching programs.
(908) 224-4095 View (908) 224-4095
Photo of Akosua Karikari - AOK Health Solutions, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, ENP-C, FNP-C, AGNP-C
AOK Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, ENP-C, FNP-C, AGNP-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! Taking the first step toward mental health care is a brave decision, and I’m here to support you. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in providing compassionate, personalized care. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and valued. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, or stress, I take a holistic approach to care, understanding the connection between mental and physical health. Together, we’ll build a plan to help you achieve balance, resilience, and well-being. Let’s start this journey together.
Welcome! Taking the first step toward mental health care is a brave decision, and I’m here to support you. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in providing compassionate, personalized care. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and valued. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, or stress, I take a holistic approach to care, understanding the connection between mental and physical health. Together, we’ll build a plan to help you achieve balance, resilience, and well-being. Let’s start this journey together.
(973) 447-1479 View (973) 447-1479
Photo of Eileen Stengel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Eileen Stengel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a firm believer in a person’s individual strengths and their bravery and perseverance in not only being a survivor but a thriver in regard to life circumstances.
I am a firm believer in a person’s individual strengths and their bravery and perseverance in not only being a survivor but a thriver in regard to life circumstances.
(609) 337-1300 View (609) 337-1300
Nana Gyan Yeboah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric evaluation and treatment for individuals across the lifespan. My clinical approach integrates holistic considerations with modern psychiatric standards to ensure care is thorough and culturally informed. I hold a BSN from Rutgers University and an MSN from Wilkes University, which guide my commitment to delivering structured, effective, and patient-centered mental health care.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive, evidence-based psychiatric evaluation and treatment for individuals across the lifespan. My clinical approach integrates holistic considerations with modern psychiatric standards to ensure care is thorough and culturally informed. I hold a BSN from Rutgers University and an MSN from Wilkes University, which guide my commitment to delivering structured, effective, and patient-centered mental health care.
(973) 506-2343 View (973) 506-2343
Photo of Ursula Nonyerem Odimara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Ursula Nonyerem Odimara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are struggling with mental health symptoms, Healthy Mind is a safe place to start your mental health journey. Dr. Ursula Odimara is doctorate prepared ANCC board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and is a graduate of LaSalle University, Philadelphia, Pa. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, this gives her the knowledge and experience to treat each patient with individualized holistic approach. She has a broad experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, mood disorders and much more.
If you are struggling with mental health symptoms, Healthy Mind is a safe place to start your mental health journey. Dr. Ursula Odimara is doctorate prepared ANCC board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and is a graduate of LaSalle University, Philadelphia, Pa. She is dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, this gives her the knowledge and experience to treat each patient with individualized holistic approach. She has a broad experience in dealing with diagnosis such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, mood disorders and much more.
(609) 710-9716 View (609) 710-9716
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
Photo of Dominique Pelote, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Dominique Pelote
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Dominique and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety and Stress Management. 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 Dominique and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety and Stress Management. 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) 791-4800 View (973) 791-4800
Photo of Jessica Vann, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Jessica Vann
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jessica and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Chronic Illness, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Loss, Grief and Bereavement, Life Transitions, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race/Cultural Identity and Stress Management. 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 Jessica and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in Anxiety, Chronic Illness, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Loss, Grief and Bereavement, Life Transitions, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race/Cultural Identity and Stress Management. 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) 860-3504 View (973) 860-3504
Photo of Regina Inokon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Regina Inokon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Dr Regina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and infectious disease specialist. I received my Doctorate from Rutgers University, NJ, and have been practicing for 6 years. I help individuals who are going through a tough time, struggling with life stress and burnout, become the best versions of themselves. Our services included psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy
Welcome! I'm Dr Regina is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and infectious disease specialist. I received my Doctorate from Rutgers University, NJ, and have been practicing for 6 years. I help individuals who are going through a tough time, struggling with life stress and burnout, become the best versions of themselves. Our services included psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy
(973) 833-5385 View (973) 833-5385
Photo of Leo Onyekwere Onuoha, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Leo Onyekwere Onuoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two years experience helping patients with various mental health challenges in various capacities. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. My expertise lies in continuous care for those with chronic psychiatric conditions, especially those discharged from acute care settings. My areas of specialization include, depression, anxiety, PTSD, manic depression, Bipolar and sleep disorders.
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over two years experience helping patients with various mental health challenges in various capacities. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. My expertise lies in continuous care for those with chronic psychiatric conditions, especially those discharged from acute care settings. My areas of specialization include, depression, anxiety, PTSD, manic depression, Bipolar and sleep disorders.
(856) 386-1637 View (856) 386-1637
Photo of Evelyn Rosa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Evelyn Rosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Welcome to Beyond Mental Health and Wellness. Evelyn Rosa MSN, PMHNP, BC is a Board-certified child, adolescent, and adult Nurse Practitioner, with over 14 years of psychiatric nursing experience.
Welcome to Beyond Mental Health and Wellness. Evelyn Rosa MSN, PMHNP, BC is a Board-certified child, adolescent, and adult Nurse Practitioner, with over 14 years of psychiatric nursing experience.
(862) 418-1856 View (862) 418-1856
Photo of Natasha Carew, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Natasha Carew
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
With almost 20 years of experience as a nurse practitioner managing primary care, psychiatric, and geriatric clients, my focus has shifted in the past year to specialize more in psychiatric. Although my primary focus is on anxiety and depression, I also work extensively with older adults, individuals managing chronic illnesses, those experiencing grief, and clients with ADHD. My holistic approach enables me to address a wide range of mental health challenges, ensuring that care is personalized and tailored to each client’s specific needs. By combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments, I empower clients.
With almost 20 years of experience as a nurse practitioner managing primary care, psychiatric, and geriatric clients, my focus has shifted in the past year to specialize more in psychiatric. Although my primary focus is on anxiety and depression, I also work extensively with older adults, individuals managing chronic illnesses, those experiencing grief, and clients with ADHD. My holistic approach enables me to address a wide range of mental health challenges, ensuring that care is personalized and tailored to each client’s specific needs. By combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments, I empower clients.
(732) 217-7676 View (732) 217-7676
Photo of Michael Enwere - St. Michael Mental Care Consult, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
St. Michael Mental Care Consult
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Online Only
Have you encountered challenges in locating a service provider who is dedicated to thoroughly understanding and assisting you? The task of finding a qualified professional capable of genuinely perceiving and acknowledging your needs can prove arduous. You may be grappling with depression, anxiety, or residual effects of past trauma. My expertise lies in aiding individuals to conquer such symptoms, alongside navigating an array of mental health and wellness obstacles. Above all, my role is to listen and facilitate your self-awareness, by providing utmost care and improving lifestyle betterment.
Have you encountered challenges in locating a service provider who is dedicated to thoroughly understanding and assisting you? The task of finding a qualified professional capable of genuinely perceiving and acknowledging your needs can prove arduous. You may be grappling with depression, anxiety, or residual effects of past trauma. My expertise lies in aiding individuals to conquer such symptoms, alongside navigating an array of mental health and wellness obstacles. Above all, my role is to listen and facilitate your self-awareness, by providing utmost care and improving lifestyle betterment.
(973) 447-9286 View (973) 447-9286
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Elina Petrosyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elina Petrosyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
(973) 406-4988 View (973) 406-4988
Photo of Marly Jiby - Cornerstone Healing Clinic LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Cornerstone Healing Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Online Only
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. I have been working with patients with mental health issues for more than a decade. I believe each person has an internal capability and tendency to be resilient. Are you not that happy self that you used to be? Are you sad, tired, emotional, irritable or angry without a proportional reason? Can you not pay attention or accomplish a task? Are you not enthusiastic anymore? Are you stressed or overwhelmed?
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. I have been working with patients with mental health issues for more than a decade. I believe each person has an internal capability and tendency to be resilient. Are you not that happy self that you used to be? Are you sad, tired, emotional, irritable or angry without a proportional reason? Can you not pay attention or accomplish a task? Are you not enthusiastic anymore? Are you stressed or overwhelmed?
(914) 219-6675 View (914) 219-6675
Photo of Dianne White, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Dianne White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dianne White, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working on an inpatient psychiatric unit. Throughout my profession, I have worked as an RN, Family Nurse Practitioner, and currently as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have learned the importance of caring for a whole person’s well-being. Each of my patients is treated with specialized care, giving them the unique attention necessary for successful treatment. I take pride in providing my clients with the assistance they need to turn their outlook on life around for the better. To give hope to the ones who’ve felt hopeless.
Hello, my name is Dianne White, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working on an inpatient psychiatric unit. Throughout my profession, I have worked as an RN, Family Nurse Practitioner, and currently as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have learned the importance of caring for a whole person’s well-being. Each of my patients is treated with specialized care, giving them the unique attention necessary for successful treatment. I take pride in providing my clients with the assistance they need to turn their outlook on life around for the better. To give hope to the ones who’ve felt hopeless.
(609) 312-5329 View (609) 312-5329
Photo of Robert White - Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APN
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, APN
Serves Area
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Services of New Jersey is a private psychiatric practice that provides a full range of outpatient mental health services, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, individual, family and group psychotherapy for clients at all stages of life; children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
(848) 289-1485 View (848) 289-1485
Photo of Ihab Ibrahim, Psychiatrist, MD
Ihab Ibrahim
Psychiatrist, MD
Holmdel, NJ 07733
Dr. Ihab Ibrahim is a dedicated and caring psychiatrist, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, serving the community of New York and New Jersey.He complete his residency in psychiatry at Delaware Psychiatric Center. He also completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at North Shore-LIJ Health System. He is certified in General Psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a member of American Psychiatric association and AACAP.
Dr. Ihab Ibrahim is a dedicated and caring psychiatrist, specializing in child and adolescent psychiatry, serving the community of New York and New Jersey.He complete his residency in psychiatry at Delaware Psychiatric Center. He also completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at North Shore-LIJ Health System. He is certified in General Psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is a member of American Psychiatric association and AACAP.
(347) 380-9716 View (347) 380-9716

See more therapy options for 07112

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07112

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 07112 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
93% ADHD
87% Anxiety
87% Bipolar Disorder
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
80% Trauma and PTSD
73% Medication Management

Average years in practice

5 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
93% Aetna
79% Other

How Psychiatrists in 07112 see their clients

73% Online Only
27% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07112?

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.