Psychiatrists in 07450

Photo of Steven Jay Wruble, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven Jay Wruble
Psychiatrist, MD
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Here at the Venn Center, we offer patients a unique therapeutic experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments, as well as provide both individual and group psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I also offer pharmacotherapy and medication management when appropriate. That being said, 25% of my patients are not on any medication since I employ non-medicinal interventions that help remediate psychiatric symptoms whenever possible. Offering these complementary services allows the clients I work with to feel empowered in their desire for change toward a healthier way of being.
Here at the Venn Center, we offer patients a unique therapeutic experience. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and assessments, as well as provide both individual and group psychotherapy to clients of all ages. I also offer pharmacotherapy and medication management when appropriate. That being said, 25% of my patients are not on any medication since I employ non-medicinal interventions that help remediate psychiatric symptoms whenever possible. Offering these complementary services allows the clients I work with to feel empowered in their desire for change toward a healthier way of being.
(201) 870-0910 View (201) 870-0910
Photo of Rita Jane Grogan, Psychiatrist, MD
Rita Jane Grogan
Psychiatrist, MD
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am a Cornell trained psychiatrist who is Board Certified with over 25 years of experience treating adults. I have an expertise in psychotherapy and psychiatric medication treatment. My emphasis is on establishing a safe, empathetic relationship where you can express your thoughts, feelings and memories in a nonjudgmental environment. My goal is helping you develop a richer emotional life by exploring current relationships as well as past experiences that may prevent you from reaching your full potential.
I am a Cornell trained psychiatrist who is Board Certified with over 25 years of experience treating adults. I have an expertise in psychotherapy and psychiatric medication treatment. My emphasis is on establishing a safe, empathetic relationship where you can express your thoughts, feelings and memories in a nonjudgmental environment. My goal is helping you develop a richer emotional life by exploring current relationships as well as past experiences that may prevent you from reaching your full potential.
(201) 340-5082 View (201) 340-5082
Bergen Psychiatric Care, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
I am an American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and an American Board of Addiction Medicine certified Chief Psychiatrist who works in a distinguished Psychiatric Facility in NJ. I have extensive experience in managing a myriad of Psychiatric Disorders which include : Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Addiction Disorders and Bipolar Disorder etc. My treatment ideology is patient driven , empathetic and compassionate Psychiatric care. I am knowledgeable and thoroughly familiar with all the novel Psychopharmacological interventions that are FDA approved . I offer my patients personalized comprehensive Psychiatric Treatment in a comfortable and confidential setting. My staff is approachable and willing to accommodate patients and their special needs.
(201) 949-7625 View (201) 949-7625
Photo of Lynn Alison Bornfriend - Treatment for Depression and Anxiety, Psychiatrist
Treatment for Depression and Anxiety
Psychiatrist
3 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Dr. Lynn Alison Bornfriend is an experienced psychiatrist providing treatment for depression and anxiety in Ridgewood, NJ and across New Jersey. With over 30 years of experience, she treats children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD related conditions, and trauma related concerns. She combines careful diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy to create individualized treatment plans that support long term emotional well being and daily functioning.
Dr. Lynn Alison Bornfriend is an experienced psychiatrist providing treatment for depression and anxiety in Ridgewood, NJ and across New Jersey. With over 30 years of experience, she treats children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD related conditions, and trauma related concerns. She combines careful diagnostic evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy to create individualized treatment plans that support long term emotional well being and daily functioning.
(201) 482-3451 View (201) 482-3451
Photo of Zeynep Ozinci - Pearl Psychiatry and Therapy Center for All Ages, Psychiatrist, MD
Pearl Psychiatry and Therapy Center for All Ages
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am Dr. Zeynep Ozinci, a double-board-certified Pediatric/Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience. I bring genuine compassion and a deep commitment to understanding each person’s unique mental health journey. My expertise is grounded in a comprehensive educational and clinical foundation, including research and training at NYU, Montefiore, Rutgers, and Hofstra/Northwell, where I graduated with a Clinical Excellence Recognition. I have also completed continuing medical education through Harvard Medical School. I am here to listen deeply, understand your story, and support you.
I am Dr. Zeynep Ozinci, a double-board-certified Pediatric/Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience. I bring genuine compassion and a deep commitment to understanding each person’s unique mental health journey. My expertise is grounded in a comprehensive educational and clinical foundation, including research and training at NYU, Montefiore, Rutgers, and Hofstra/Northwell, where I graduated with a Clinical Excellence Recognition. I have also completed continuing medical education through Harvard Medical School. I am here to listen deeply, understand your story, and support you.
(551) 444-9744 View (551) 444-9744
Photo of William D Becker, Psychiatrist, MD
William D Becker
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
I am Board-Certified in both Adult and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have 25 years experience doing evaluations, psychopharmacology, and/or psychotherapy. I have expertise working with most psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, Depression, Suicide Risk Assessment, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Psychosis.
(201) 849-1667 View (201) 849-1667
Photo of Judith H Gurfein - Arista Psychological & Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN
Arista Psychological & Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, APRN
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
ARISTA is a private mental health and chemical dependency practice which has been serving Manhattan and Bergen County, New Jersey, for over 25 years. Our health care professionals include licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and counselors with expertise in marriage, family, adults, teens, children, hypnotherapy and addictions. Arista's warm, highly qualified psychotherapists will ensure that you receive individualized care in a comfortable, confidential setting. Our goal is to match you with a therapist who has achieved success with patients who have problems similar to yours.
ARISTA is a private mental health and chemical dependency practice which has been serving Manhattan and Bergen County, New Jersey, for over 25 years. Our health care professionals include licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and counselors with expertise in marriage, family, adults, teens, children, hypnotherapy and addictions. Arista's warm, highly qualified psychotherapists will ensure that you receive individualized care in a comfortable, confidential setting. Our goal is to match you with a therapist who has achieved success with patients who have problems similar to yours.
(201) 383-1582 View (201) 383-1582
Photo of Nina Sharon Sugar, Psychiatrist, MD
Nina Sharon Sugar
Psychiatrist, MD
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am Board-Certified in Child and Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. I am licensed in NY and NJ and have been in private practice for over 20 years. I graduated with a BA in psychology-biology from Colgate U in 1981. After college, I taught nursery school and was a volunteer counselor for adolescents at Columbia Presbyterian's Young Adult Clinic. Later, I worked in basic genetics research and pulmonary clinical care at Columbia Presbyterian. I graduated from Tel Aviv University Medical School, did psychiatry residency at Hillside Hospital-LIJMC; and child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Payne Whitney Clinic -Cornell UMC
I am Board-Certified in Child and Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. I am licensed in NY and NJ and have been in private practice for over 20 years. I graduated with a BA in psychology-biology from Colgate U in 1981. After college, I taught nursery school and was a volunteer counselor for adolescents at Columbia Presbyterian's Young Adult Clinic. Later, I worked in basic genetics research and pulmonary clinical care at Columbia Presbyterian. I graduated from Tel Aviv University Medical School, did psychiatry residency at Hillside Hospital-LIJMC; and child & adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Payne Whitney Clinic -Cornell UMC
(201) 879-6566 View (201) 879-6566
Photo of Khushbu Majmundar, Psychiatrist, MD
Khushbu Majmundar
Psychiatrist, MD
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Dr. Majmundar earned her medical degree from the Temple University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in New York City, where she served as Chief Resident. In addition to her private practice in New York City and Ridgewood, NJ, she held the roles of Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Associate Director of the Psychiatric Emergency Room at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. She also worked on a Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Psychiatric Unit at the Mount Sinai Behavioral Health Center, treating individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Dr. Majmundar earned her medical degree from the Temple University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Beth Israel in New York City, where she served as Chief Resident. In addition to her private practice in New York City and Ridgewood, NJ, she held the roles of Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Associate Director of the Psychiatric Emergency Room at Mount Sinai Beth Israel. She also worked on a Dual Diagnosis Inpatient Psychiatric Unit at the Mount Sinai Behavioral Health Center, treating individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
(201) 431-3038 View (201) 431-3038
Photo of Ashish Anand, Psychiatrist, MD
Ashish Anand
Psychiatrist, MD
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working with children, teens, and adults. I provide integrated psychotherapy and medication management within a single treatment, allowing for continuity, depth, and careful attention to the whole clinical picture.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working with children, teens, and adults. I provide integrated psychotherapy and medication management within a single treatment, allowing for continuity, depth, and careful attention to the whole clinical picture.
(201) 701-2961 View (201) 701-2961
Photo of Carolyn Grace Certo Gnerre, Psychiatrist, MD
Carolyn Grace Certo Gnerre
Psychiatrist, MD
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am a psychiatrist with specialized training to see children and adolescents, and adults. I can provide prudent medication management, therapy alone, or a combination. For more information please visit cgmentalhealth.com
I am a psychiatrist with specialized training to see children and adolescents, and adults. I can provide prudent medication management, therapy alone, or a combination. For more information please visit cgmentalhealth.com
(551) 292-7740 View (551) 292-7740
Photo of Kristina Flores, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kristina Flores
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Hi there and welcome to VitalMind Health! My name is Kristina, and I am a board-certified nurse practitioner in both adult medicine and psychiatric-mental health with 13 years of experience. My work focuses on a variety of conditions, including anxiety, mood disorders, and focus issues. I treat my patients as individuals, and do not define them based on their condition. My goal is to build a genuine connection with mutual respect, as we work together to uncover solutions.
Hi there and welcome to VitalMind Health! My name is Kristina, and I am a board-certified nurse practitioner in both adult medicine and psychiatric-mental health with 13 years of experience. My work focuses on a variety of conditions, including anxiety, mood disorders, and focus issues. I treat my patients as individuals, and do not define them based on their condition. My goal is to build a genuine connection with mutual respect, as we work together to uncover solutions.
(551) 368-5422 View (551) 368-5422
Photo of Allison M. R. Lee, Psychiatrist, MD
Allison M. R. Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately and in ways that are tailored to the individual. I will listen carefully to you and make every effort to understand your unique preferences and needs. I have expertise in both psychotherapy and medication treatments and I will work with you to find the treatment plan that suits you best. My aim in psychotherapy is to help individuals relieve painful symptoms, achieve emotional freedom, and improve interpersonal relationships.
I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately and in ways that are tailored to the individual. I will listen carefully to you and make every effort to understand your unique preferences and needs. I have expertise in both psychotherapy and medication treatments and I will work with you to find the treatment plan that suits you best. My aim in psychotherapy is to help individuals relieve painful symptoms, achieve emotional freedom, and improve interpersonal relationships.
(347) 354-1960 View (347) 354-1960
Photo of Valerie Thertus - Behavioral Psychiatry , Psychiatrist, MD
Behavioral Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Dr. Thertus completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, followed by residency and fellowship in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. She has broad experience treating a variety of psychiatric conditions, patients from diverse backgrounds and is double board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. She emphasizes shared decision making , encouraging personal input in goal setting and the recovery process.
Dr. Thertus completed medical school at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, followed by residency and fellowship in psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. She has broad experience treating a variety of psychiatric conditions, patients from diverse backgrounds and is double board certified in general and child and adolescent psychiatry. She emphasizes shared decision making , encouraging personal input in goal setting and the recovery process.
(862) 212-1995 View (862) 212-1995
Photo of Nika Dyakina, Psychiatrist
Nika Dyakina
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
I am General Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist and specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults across developmental span. I completed my Psychiatry training at Rutgers/UMDNJ and Child/Adolescent Fellowship at Columbia-Cornell NYPH program. I stayed on for 6 years, as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Columbia University, and served as an Associate Director of Pediatric Psychiatry Emergency & Consultation-Liaison Services of Children's Hospital of NY (MSCHONY). What I find most rewarding is individual clinical work. For the past 10 years, I focused on this in my private practice & continue to cherish every moment
I am General Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist and specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults across developmental span. I completed my Psychiatry training at Rutgers/UMDNJ and Child/Adolescent Fellowship at Columbia-Cornell NYPH program. I stayed on for 6 years, as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Columbia University, and served as an Associate Director of Pediatric Psychiatry Emergency & Consultation-Liaison Services of Children's Hospital of NY (MSCHONY). What I find most rewarding is individual clinical work. For the past 10 years, I focused on this in my private practice & continue to cherish every moment
(201) 561-7166 View (201) 561-7166
Photo of Bryan Omalley - MedPsych Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist
MedPsych Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
At MedPsych Behavioral Health, we specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric care for children, adolescents, college students and young adults, and adults with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety/depression and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Our team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists and ADHD coaches brings decades of combined experience offering families an integrated approach to mental health care for you and your family.
At MedPsych Behavioral Health, we specialize in providing comprehensive psychiatric care for children, adolescents, college students and young adults, and adults with particular expertise in ADHD, anxiety/depression and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Our team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists and ADHD coaches brings decades of combined experience offering families an integrated approach to mental health care for you and your family.
(201) 862-4485 View (201) 862-4485
Photo of Audrey E Rasiul, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMNHP
Audrey E Rasiul
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMNHP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have over 30 years of experience in mental health nursing. I provide evidence-based, compassionate, and holistic care tailored to each individual's unique journey. I have extensive experience across all ages in multiple settings. These experiences give me a deep understanding of the complex challenges my patients navigate. I began my role as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in 2020 and have focused primarily on supporting children, teens, and young adults. In the last 2 years, I expanded my services to adult patients who are "young at heart". I enjoy helping those with trauma, depression, anxiety, and OCD.
I have over 30 years of experience in mental health nursing. I provide evidence-based, compassionate, and holistic care tailored to each individual's unique journey. I have extensive experience across all ages in multiple settings. These experiences give me a deep understanding of the complex challenges my patients navigate. I began my role as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in 2020 and have focused primarily on supporting children, teens, and young adults. In the last 2 years, I expanded my services to adult patients who are "young at heart". I enjoy helping those with trauma, depression, anxiety, and OCD.
(609) 671-8756 View (609) 671-8756
Photo of James Welch, Psychiatrist, MD
James Welch
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I work with patients seeking relief from the distress of emotional and biological illness that is impairing their function in life. I have thirty years experience trying to understand the unique factors that describe each individual's circumstances and seeking to find practical solutions for his or her areas of concern. I received my M.D. from the University of Texas at San Antonio Medical School, and completed residency training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. I supervised and taught residents at Mount Sinai before relocating my practice to New Jersey in 2001.
I work with patients seeking relief from the distress of emotional and biological illness that is impairing their function in life. I have thirty years experience trying to understand the unique factors that describe each individual's circumstances and seeking to find practical solutions for his or her areas of concern. I received my M.D. from the University of Texas at San Antonio Medical School, and completed residency training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. I supervised and taught residents at Mount Sinai before relocating my practice to New Jersey in 2001.
(201) 898-0976 View (201) 898-0976
Gail Boyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and co-occurring substance use — including individuals who haven't found adequate relief through past medication trials. Many of my patients come to me feeling frustrated after years of incomplete treatment, unsure what's still worth trying. Others are new to psychiatric care and want a thoughtful, science-backed starting point. Wherever you are in your journey, the right medication plan should be built around your full life, not just your symptom list.
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and co-occurring substance use — including individuals who haven't found adequate relief through past medication trials. Many of my patients come to me feeling frustrated after years of incomplete treatment, unsure what's still worth trying. Others are new to psychiatric care and want a thoughtful, science-backed starting point. Wherever you are in your journey, the right medication plan should be built around your full life, not just your symptom list.
(862) 430-2928 View (862) 430-2928
Photo of David A. Mitnick, Psychiatrist, MD
David A. Mitnick
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
David Mitnick M.D. combines evidence-based psychiatric approaches with over two decades of patient-centered humanism treating children, teens and adults. Dr. Mitnick is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Medical College of Cornell University. He treats a broad range of mental health issues, with particular interest in ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorders, as well as Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Dr. Mitnick believes in a comprehensive, collaborative and holistic approach to assessment and treatment. He provides evaluation, psychotherapy and medications customized to the individual.
(201) 877-5505 View (201) 877-5505

See more therapy options for 07450

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07450

30+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in 07450 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
84% ADHD
84% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
84% Bipolar Disorder
72% Trauma and PTSD
66% Medication Management

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Cigna and Evernorth
83% Aetna
58% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07450 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

64% Female
36% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07450?

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.