Psychiatrists in 07307

Photo of Dr. Thomas Driscoll, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Thomas Driscoll
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
My name is Thomas Driscoll, MD, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering medication management to adults.
My name is Thomas Driscoll, MD, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering medication management to adults.
(973) 712-8447 View (973) 712-8447
Photo of Natasha S Lopez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, APN
Natasha S Lopez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, APN
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07307
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? You’re not alone and I’m here to help. In my clinical practice, I take a holistic, collaborative approach, working with each patient to tailor individualized treatment plans that not only address their symptoms but also support their overall well-being. My goal is to empower you in your mental health journey within a safe, respectful, and supportive space.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? You’re not alone and I’m here to help. In my clinical practice, I take a holistic, collaborative approach, working with each patient to tailor individualized treatment plans that not only address their symptoms but also support their overall well-being. My goal is to empower you in your mental health journey within a safe, respectful, and supportive space.
(973) 834-6295 View (973) 834-6295
Photo of Catherine N Okali, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Catherine N Okali
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Easy Behavioral Health Services focuses on the holistic care of patients. I am a doctorate prepared Board- Certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 10 years of experience providing quality care to patients of different ages. Following the initial comprehensive and diagnostic evaluation, we develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve the health goals, provide compassionate, medication management, and holistic care to our clients.
Easy Behavioral Health Services focuses on the holistic care of patients. I am a doctorate prepared Board- Certified Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 10 years of experience providing quality care to patients of different ages. Following the initial comprehensive and diagnostic evaluation, we develop an evidence-based individualized care plan that will achieve the health goals, provide compassionate, medication management, and holistic care to our clients.
(908) 873-3294 View (908) 873-3294

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Tina Anighoro-Okezie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Tina Anighoro-Okezie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
1 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030
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.
(551) 367-0133 View (551) 367-0133
Photo of Dr. Yary Martinez, Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Dr. Yary Martinez
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Online Only
I am dedicated to combining therapy and psychotropic medications to establish an overall well-being. Being fluent in both English and Spanish, allows me to understand the importance of cultural sensitivity and effective communication in mental health treatment. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, I strive to provide a supportive environment where you can openly discuss your concerns and receive personalized care in your native language.
I am dedicated to combining therapy and psychotropic medications to establish an overall well-being. Being fluent in both English and Spanish, allows me to understand the importance of cultural sensitivity and effective communication in mental health treatment. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other challenges, I strive to provide a supportive environment where you can openly discuss your concerns and receive personalized care in your native language.
(862) 407-5399 View (862) 407-5399
Photo of Martina Taina Barshall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Martina Taina Barshall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
At Oasis Psychiatry and Counseling, we excel in providing effective treatment, support, crisis intervention, continuous monitoring, and holistic care to achieve symptom management, emotional stability, improved functioning, self-efficacy, and relapse prevention. Our clients seek empathy, respect, clear communication, accessible care, and a holistic approach for a better quality of life. We offer integrated care, personalized treatment, advanced training, and a patient-centered focus, employing strategies like comprehensive assessments, personalized plans, psychoeducation, therapeutic interventions, medication management, etc.....
At Oasis Psychiatry and Counseling, we excel in providing effective treatment, support, crisis intervention, continuous monitoring, and holistic care to achieve symptom management, emotional stability, improved functioning, self-efficacy, and relapse prevention. Our clients seek empathy, respect, clear communication, accessible care, and a holistic approach for a better quality of life. We offer integrated care, personalized treatment, advanced training, and a patient-centered focus, employing strategies like comprehensive assessments, personalized plans, psychoeducation, therapeutic interventions, medication management, etc.....
(515) 762-5459 View (515) 762-5459
Photo of Racquel San Juan, Psychiatrist, DO
Racquel San Juan
Psychiatrist, DO
Warren, NJ 07059
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
I'm dedicated to treating patients with compassion. I have a history of positive outcomes, and I am well respected in my field. Patients find that my approach to care is individualized and collaborative. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist passionate about helping patients with depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health diagnoses.
(848) 359-5805 View (848) 359-5805
Photo of Dr. Mary McAleavy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Dr. Mary McAleavy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to a space where healing begins and personal growth takes center stage. My focus is on understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by children, adolescents, and young adults during pivotal moments in their lives. Specializing in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depressive disorders, behavioral issues, and stress management, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and thoughtful care. My approach is rooted in viewing individuals holistically, considering not just the symptoms but the person behind them.
Welcome to a space where healing begins and personal growth takes center stage. My focus is on understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by children, adolescents, and young adults during pivotal moments in their lives. Specializing in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depressive disorders, behavioral issues, and stress management, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and thoughtful care. My approach is rooted in viewing individuals holistically, considering not just the symptoms but the person behind them.
(848) 305-2531 View (848) 305-2531
Photo of Julie Sullivan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Julie Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Julie embraces a holistic approach to mental healthcare treatment, and understands the importance of incorporating multiple healing methods within each healing plan.
Julie embraces a holistic approach to mental healthcare treatment, and understands the importance of incorporating multiple healing methods within each healing plan.
(848) 277-0688 View (848) 277-0688
Photo of Matthew Hylton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Matthew Hylton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Matthew Hylton is a licensed mental health professional in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, specializing in the treatment of anxiety and OCD. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Matthew works collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs. Drawing from evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), he helps clients manage symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve overall well-being.
Matthew Hylton is a licensed mental health professional in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, specializing in the treatment of anxiety and OCD. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, Matthew works collaboratively with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs. Drawing from evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), he helps clients manage symptoms, develop coping strategies, and improve overall well-being.
(908) 395-7310 View (908) 395-7310
Photo of Asma Mian - Alexander Road Associates, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Road Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
ARA has been serving the Princeton area for over thirty years. ARA offers psychiatry, psychotherapy, psycho/educational testing and substance abuse counseling for people of all ages. ARA is dedicated to providing thoughtful and compassionate integrated care for our patients. Psychiatrists and therapists collaborate to offer evidence-based treatments including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy and psycho-pharmacological intervention. ARA child, adolescent and adult psychiatrists are skilled in diagnosis & psychopharmacology.
ARA has been serving the Princeton area for over thirty years. ARA offers psychiatry, psychotherapy, psycho/educational testing and substance abuse counseling for people of all ages. ARA is dedicated to providing thoughtful and compassionate integrated care for our patients. Psychiatrists and therapists collaborate to offer evidence-based treatments including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy and psycho-pharmacological intervention. ARA child, adolescent and adult psychiatrists are skilled in diagnosis & psychopharmacology.
(609) 957-6887 View (609) 957-6887
Photo of Ruth MacKenzie - Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Ruth MacKenzie (adolescent/teen specialist)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Cranford, NJ 07016
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(908) 498-7061 View (908) 498-7061
Photo of Niru Shamsun Nahar, Psychiatrist, MD
Niru Shamsun Nahar
Psychiatrist, MD
Clifton, NJ 07011
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in both General Psychiatry and Addiction. My training was accomplished at prestigious institutions such as Harlem Hospital/Columbia University and NYSPI/Columbia University. With over 19 years in the field, I've dedicated my practice to helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and more.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in both General Psychiatry and Addiction. My training was accomplished at prestigious institutions such as Harlem Hospital/Columbia University and NYSPI/Columbia University. With over 19 years in the field, I've dedicated my practice to helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and more.
(732) 889-5881 View (732) 889-5881
Photo of Uloma Nzeduru, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APN, PMHNP, BC
Uloma Nzeduru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , APN, PMHNP, BC
West Orange, NJ 07052
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected? If anxiety, depression, mood challenges, or trauma have taken a toll, know that you don’t have to face it alone. I provide a compassionate, safe and supportive space where we can explore your concerns, uncover your strengths, and create a path toward healing and balance. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Rutgers University, I help individuals of all ages- children, adolescents and adults- achieve emotional wellness.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected? If anxiety, depression, mood challenges, or trauma have taken a toll, know that you don’t have to face it alone. I provide a compassionate, safe and supportive space where we can explore your concerns, uncover your strengths, and create a path toward healing and balance. As a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Rutgers University, I help individuals of all ages- children, adolescents and adults- achieve emotional wellness.
(862) 429-4282 View (862) 429-4282
Photo of Derek Berberian, Psychiatrist, MD
Derek Berberian
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
Dr. Berberian is a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Neurologist who has extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, PSTD, OCD, ADHD, mood disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, neuropathies, headaches and addiction. In addition, he performs outpatient bariatric screening, biofeedback, neurofeedback and EEG evaluations. Care is goal-oriented, addressing each individual's needs using a variety of patient-centered approaches. His focus includes adolescent, adult and geriatric populations.
(551) 292-7298 View (551) 292-7298
Photo of Sujatha Charlu, Psychiatrist, MD
Sujatha Charlu
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of anxiety and stress (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), mood and depression, childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and psychosis. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications where necessary. I feel every session is a therapeutic one, and take time to understand a client's difficulties in the context of their relationships, jobs, school, and daily lives. Please note that I am a private pay doctor and do not take insurance.
I am a child, adolescent, & adult psychiatrist, treating a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties. I specialize in problems of anxiety and stress (panic attacks, OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety), mood and depression, childhood behavior (ADHD, oppositionality), autism spectrum disorders, and psychosis. I believe strongly in the importance of psychotherapy as well as the balanced, evidence-based use of medications where necessary. I feel every session is a therapeutic one, and take time to understand a client's difficulties in the context of their relationships, jobs, school, and daily lives. Please note that I am a private pay doctor and do not take insurance.
(646) 798-4097 View (646) 798-4097
Photo of Vesna Vidojevikj, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vesna Vidojevikj
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Vesna is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New Jersey. She offers help to clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, and other mental health disorders. She provides medication management and supportive therapy and helps clients determine the most appropriate medication regimen. She works closely with clients to address concerns about medications, provide education about how they work, and adjust prescriptions when necessary to optimize treatment.
Vesna is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New Jersey. She offers help to clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, insomnia, and other mental health disorders. She provides medication management and supportive therapy and helps clients determine the most appropriate medication regimen. She works closely with clients to address concerns about medications, provide education about how they work, and adjust prescriptions when necessary to optimize treatment.
(551) 365-8663 View (551) 365-8663
Photo of Salome O Ugwu - Saspon behavioral health and wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Saspon behavioral health and wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to provide compassionate, personalized care that empowers individuals to take control of their mental health and feel truly supported in the process. I believe that healing begins with being heard—and I strive to create a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. My clinical approach combines evidence-based medication management with supportive, holistic care. I understand that no two people are the same, and I take the time to listen carefully, consider your whole story, and work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that aligns with you.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to provide compassionate, personalized care that empowers individuals to take control of their mental health and feel truly supported in the process. I believe that healing begins with being heard—and I strive to create a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood. My clinical approach combines evidence-based medication management with supportive, holistic care. I understand that no two people are the same, and I take the time to listen carefully, consider your whole story, and work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that aligns with you.
(973) 791-8325 View (973) 791-8325
Photo of Anay Vazquez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Anay Vazquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
West New York, NJ 07093
Hello/Hola. My name is Anay Vazquez, PMHNP-BC. I bring over a decade experience in the healthcare field. Just remember, " You are NOT your Mental Illness" . I offer a comprehensive, one-on-one, client-centered approach designed to help alleviate your symptoms and bring clarity to any doubts or concerns you may have. My areas of specialization include Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and more.
Hello/Hola. My name is Anay Vazquez, PMHNP-BC. I bring over a decade experience in the healthcare field. Just remember, " You are NOT your Mental Illness" . I offer a comprehensive, one-on-one, client-centered approach designed to help alleviate your symptoms and bring clarity to any doubts or concerns you may have. My areas of specialization include Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and more.
(862) 378-3034 View (862) 378-3034
Photo of Christianah Adelakun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP BC
Christianah Adelakun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a psychiatric healthcare worker, my ideal client is someone who is motivated to work on their mental health and willing to participate in the therapy process. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health conditions that impact their daily functioning. Their needs may include emotional support, tools to manage their symptoms, drugs, and non-judgmental space to process their thoughts and feelings. They may also benefit from understanding the root cause of their issues and learning how to cope with life's stressors. Goals include reducing symptoms, improving relationships, and achieving personal growth.
As a psychiatric healthcare worker, my ideal client is someone who is motivated to work on their mental health and willing to participate in the therapy process. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health conditions that impact their daily functioning. Their needs may include emotional support, tools to manage their symptoms, drugs, and non-judgmental space to process their thoughts and feelings. They may also benefit from understanding the root cause of their issues and learning how to cope with life's stressors. Goals include reducing symptoms, improving relationships, and achieving personal growth.
(973) 355-7812 View (973) 355-7812

See more therapy options for 07307

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07307

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07307 who prioritize treating:

67% Depression
67% Anxiety
67% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Bipolar Disorder
67% Substance Use
67% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

4 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07307 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07307?

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.