Psychiatrists in 07175
Hi, my name is Tina, and I am dedicated to providing thorough mental health care for individuals across all age groups. I specialize in conducting detailed evaluations, making accurate diagnoses, and creating personalized treatment plans for those struggling with various mental health issues. I am an expert in both managing medication and offering supportive therapy. I always prioritize the comprehensive well-being of my patients. My unique understanding of cultural diversity enables me to build meaningful connections with you no matter your background, which is crucial for getting you feeling like yourself again.
Hi, my name is Tina, and I am dedicated to providing thorough mental health care for individuals across all age groups. I specialize in conducting detailed evaluations, making accurate diagnoses, and creating personalized treatment plans for those struggling with various mental health issues. I am an expert in both managing medication and offering supportive therapy. I always prioritize the comprehensive well-being of my patients. My unique understanding of cultural diversity enables me to build meaningful connections with you no matter your background, which is crucial for getting you feeling like yourself again.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Medication therapy plays a crucial role in managing various mental health disorders. The right medication can significantly reduce and stabilize symptoms, allowing patients to improve their quality of life. Although the effectiveness of medication can vary from person to person, proper administration, monitoring, and guidance from trained professionals are essential to help patients achieve the desired outcomes.
Medication therapy plays a crucial role in managing various mental health disorders. The right medication can significantly reduce and stabilize symptoms, allowing patients to improve their quality of life. Although the effectiveness of medication can vary from person to person, proper administration, monitoring, and guidance from trained professionals are essential to help patients achieve the desired outcomes.
Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has practiced for over 12 years in various capacities in healthcare serving patients and their families. During her career and education, Lola developed comfort treating individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders and other common psychiatric disorders.
Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has practiced for over 12 years in various capacities in healthcare serving patients and their families. During her career and education, Lola developed comfort treating individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders and other common psychiatric disorders.
There is no such a thing as “Ideal client”. Each individual is unique and tailored to fit needs. If you are having mood up and down, feeling sad, not able to concentrate or focus at work or school, irritability or anger, I am here to help you to get through it. I believe in a holistic approach, take time to understand each individual's needs and tailor a treatment plan accordingly. I practice evidence-based medication treatment along with talk therapy. Specialized in treating common issues like ADHD, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
There is no such a thing as “Ideal client”. Each individual is unique and tailored to fit needs. If you are having mood up and down, feeling sad, not able to concentrate or focus at work or school, irritability or anger, I am here to help you to get through it. I believe in a holistic approach, take time to understand each individual's needs and tailor a treatment plan accordingly. I practice evidence-based medication treatment along with talk therapy. Specialized in treating common issues like ADHD, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
Healing often begins when we finally pause long enough to hear what our inner world has been trying to tell us. I work with individuals seeking meaningful inner change and deeper self-understanding while navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood-related challenges. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Rutgers University, specializing in mood and anxiety disorders. I honor the mind–body–spirit connection and view mental health as a reflection of both the inner world and overall well-being.
Healing often begins when we finally pause long enough to hear what our inner world has been trying to tell us. I work with individuals seeking meaningful inner change and deeper self-understanding while navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood-related challenges. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Rutgers University, specializing in mood and anxiety disorders. I honor the mind–body–spirit connection and view mental health as a reflection of both the inner world and overall well-being.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy provides online psychiatry and therapy across New Jersey and New York, with in-person care available at our Paramus and Edison offices. We treat children, adolescents, adults, and seniors for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, OCD, postpartum depression, and bipolar disorder. Same-week appointments are typically available. We are in-network with Aetna, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, and other major carriers. Call (201) 977-2889.
Family Psychiatry and Therapy provides online psychiatry and therapy across New Jersey and New York, with in-person care available at our Paramus and Edison offices. We treat children, adolescents, adults, and seniors for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD and trauma, OCD, postpartum depression, and bipolar disorder. Same-week appointments are typically available. We are in-network with Aetna, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, and other major carriers. Call (201) 977-2889.
Liblune Wellness Health Care Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGNGNP, PMHNP-
East Orange, NJ 07018
Starting therapy or psychiatric care can feel overwhelming. Many of my patients come to me feeling anxious, emotionally exhausted, misunderstood, or unsure where to begin. My goal is to create a safe, respectful, and judgment-free space where you feel heard and supported.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience, including 5 years practicing as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. I provide evidence-based psychiatric care for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other mental health conditions.
Starting therapy or psychiatric care can feel overwhelming. Many of my patients come to me feeling anxious, emotionally exhausted, misunderstood, or unsure where to begin. My goal is to create a safe, respectful, and judgment-free space where you feel heard and supported.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of nursing experience, including 5 years practicing as an Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner. I provide evidence-based psychiatric care for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other mental health conditions.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck despite trying to manage on your own? When anxiety, depression, or mood symptoms linger, they can drain your energy, disrupt relationships, and make even everyday tasks feel heavy. You don’t have to go through this alone. Together, we can identify what’s contributing to your feelings and develop a thoughtful, personalized treatment plan to help you feel more balanced, focused, and in control.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck despite trying to manage on your own? When anxiety, depression, or mood symptoms linger, they can drain your energy, disrupt relationships, and make even everyday tasks feel heavy. You don’t have to go through this alone. Together, we can identify what’s contributing to your feelings and develop a thoughtful, personalized treatment plan to help you feel more balanced, focused, and in control.
I am a board certified child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist . I am also Assistant Professor at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine and well as Clinical Assistant Professor at RutgersNJMS. I completed my Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at Rutgers NJMS in Newark, NJ in 2011. After graduation I held a full time faculty position at the same department and was closely involved as core faculty in training child psychiatry fellows as well as residents. I also have experience working in a collaborative care model at PPC where I guide pediatricians about treating various mental health issues.
I am a board certified child & adolescent and adult psychiatrist . I am also Assistant Professor at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine and well as Clinical Assistant Professor at RutgersNJMS. I completed my Child & Adolescent Psychiatry training at Rutgers NJMS in Newark, NJ in 2011. After graduation I held a full time faculty position at the same department and was closely involved as core faculty in training child psychiatry fellows as well as residents. I also have experience working in a collaborative care model at PPC where I guide pediatricians about treating various mental health issues.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
Hello this is Dr. Padma Palvai a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. Are you searching for a passionate and resourceful psychiatrist for yourself or your child? Does your child need mental health services from a board certified psychiatrist who truly cares? Do you need to find someone skilled in working with clients diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions? You can stop searching. As a psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating children and adults I have gained the skills, knowledge, and drive to help you or your child thrive.
I help adolescents, adults, older adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, stress, burnout, insomnia, and other mental health challenges. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns that interfere with their relationships, work, school, or daily life. Others are looking for answers after years of feeling misunderstood or want a provider who truly listens and develops a treatment plan tailored to their needs. My role is to help you gain clarity, understand your diagnosis, reduce distressing symptoms
I help adolescents, adults, older adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, stress, burnout, insomnia, and other mental health challenges. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns that interfere with their relationships, work, school, or daily life. Others are looking for answers after years of feeling misunderstood or want a provider who truly listens and develops a treatment plan tailored to their needs. My role is to help you gain clarity, understand your diagnosis, reduce distressing symptoms
As a board certified psychiatrist trained in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults, I am passionate about taking a comprehensive approach in psychiatric care through lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and conservative medication management. I also believe in the importance of treating a person as a whole, which was the primary focus of my medical school education. I completed both the Psychiatry Residency and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School where I gained a depth of knowledge in treating a diverse population from all walks of life.
As a board certified psychiatrist trained in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults, I am passionate about taking a comprehensive approach in psychiatric care through lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and conservative medication management. I also believe in the importance of treating a person as a whole, which was the primary focus of my medical school education. I completed both the Psychiatry Residency and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School where I gained a depth of knowledge in treating a diverse population from all walks of life.
My philosophy is based on the belief that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment. I work collaboratively with my patients to identify their specific needs and goals, and to develop a treatment plan that best suits them. The cost of an initial psychiatric appointment may seem high, it is reflective of the specialized training and expertise that my training brings to you. Additionally, the initial appointment is a crucial step in establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing a personalized treatment plan, which can ultimately lead to improved mental health and well-being.
My philosophy is based on the belief that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment. I work collaboratively with my patients to identify their specific needs and goals, and to develop a treatment plan that best suits them. The cost of an initial psychiatric appointment may seem high, it is reflective of the specialized training and expertise that my training brings to you. Additionally, the initial appointment is a crucial step in establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing a personalized treatment plan, which can ultimately lead to improved mental health and well-being.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with a rich experience in Psychiatry. I was Clinical Director of an in-patient child and adolescent unit for 6 years and I have worked managing patients of all age groups in the out-patient setting. I have a special interest in treating Mood Disorders, ADHD and Anxiety Disorders. Life presents challenges and I help individuals develop appropriate ways to be successful at overcoming these difficulties. I provide a warm private and confidential setting that engenders hope and trust.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with a rich experience in Psychiatry. I was Clinical Director of an in-patient child and adolescent unit for 6 years and I have worked managing patients of all age groups in the out-patient setting. I have a special interest in treating Mood Disorders, ADHD and Anxiety Disorders. Life presents challenges and I help individuals develop appropriate ways to be successful at overcoming these difficulties. I provide a warm private and confidential setting that engenders hope and trust.
My goal is to help patients who are struggling with their mental health optimize the quality of their life through symptom management. I am experienced at treating a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses through medication, Spravato (esketamine), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. My “ideal” patient is someone who is suffering with a mood disorder, personality disorder, psychotic disorder, or any variation of the three, and wants help with managing their symptoms. I work well with both men and women. I am very comfortable working with patients who are aligned with LGBQT+.
My goal is to help patients who are struggling with their mental health optimize the quality of their life through symptom management. I am experienced at treating a wide range of psychiatric diagnoses through medication, Spravato (esketamine), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. My “ideal” patient is someone who is suffering with a mood disorder, personality disorder, psychotic disorder, or any variation of the three, and wants help with managing their symptoms. I work well with both men and women. I am very comfortable working with patients who are aligned with LGBQT+.
I am a Psych NP with experience working with people in various settings and bring my own experiences as a member of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities to create a warm, grounded space for clients to explore their experiences and grow. While I am an adult generalist, I have have experience working with those in the LGBTQ+, ENM, and BIPOC communities. Areas of particular interest include navigating a cancer diagnosis or managing sexual side effects of medication.
I am a Psych NP with experience working with people in various settings and bring my own experiences as a member of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities to create a warm, grounded space for clients to explore their experiences and grow. While I am an adult generalist, I have have experience working with those in the LGBTQ+, ENM, and BIPOC communities. Areas of particular interest include navigating a cancer diagnosis or managing sexual side effects of medication.
Vody Vincent is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has been working in the mental health/psychiatric field for over two decades. She has extensive experience working with individuals dealing with various mental disorders. Vody has worked with children, adolescents and adults with psychiatric illnesses such as: depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorder and other mental health issues. She uses a holistic approach in treating her clients and connects well with them through her altruistic and compassionate nature.
Vody Vincent is board-certified with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has been working in the mental health/psychiatric field for over two decades. She has extensive experience working with individuals dealing with various mental disorders. Vody has worked with children, adolescents and adults with psychiatric illnesses such as: depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, eating disorder and other mental health issues. She uses a holistic approach in treating her clients and connects well with them through her altruistic and compassionate nature.
I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood instability, and other mental health challenges that are affecting their daily lives. Many of my clients come in feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or struggling to manage stress, relationships, or changes in their mental health. I support clients by providing thorough psychiatric evaluations, clear guidance, and individualized treatment plans. Together, we focus on stabilizing symptoms, improving daily functioning, and helping clients feel more in control of their mental health.
I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood instability, and other mental health challenges that are affecting their daily lives. Many of my clients come in feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or struggling to manage stress, relationships, or changes in their mental health. I support clients by providing thorough psychiatric evaluations, clear guidance, and individualized treatment plans. Together, we focus on stabilizing symptoms, improving daily functioning, and helping clients feel more in control of their mental health.
Jacqueline Torgbor (PMHNP) is a provider with a difference due to the patient centered care she delivers. Every client is perceived to be unique therefore treatment is provided based on their uniqueness and is one client at a time. The goal is to improve mental well being by utilizing a holistic approach and also have access to quality mental health services. During the first session, a thorough assessment is conducted and treatment goals are set together. I am licensed in the states of New Jersey and Georgia with over 11 years of nursing experience including two years as a nurse practitioner.
Jacqueline Torgbor (PMHNP) is a provider with a difference due to the patient centered care she delivers. Every client is perceived to be unique therefore treatment is provided based on their uniqueness and is one client at a time. The goal is to improve mental well being by utilizing a holistic approach and also have access to quality mental health services. During the first session, a thorough assessment is conducted and treatment goals are set together. I am licensed in the states of New Jersey and Georgia with over 11 years of nursing experience including two years as a nurse practitioner.
Finding the right balance between mental wellness and daily life can feel overwhelming—but with the right support, meaningful progress is possible.
Meredith is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management services across the lifespan. Her approach is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and individualized care, ensuring that each person feels heard, informed, and actively involved in their treatment journey.
Finding the right balance between mental wellness and daily life can feel overwhelming—but with the right support, meaningful progress is possible.
Meredith is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management services across the lifespan. Her approach is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and individualized care, ensuring that each person feels heard, informed, and actively involved in their treatment journey.
See more therapy options for 07175
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07175
< 10
Psychiatrists in 07175 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Eating Disorders |
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | ADHD |
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 100% | Grief |
| 100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 100% | Medicare |
How Psychiatrists in 07175 see their clients
| 100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07175?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

