Psychiatrists in 07452

Photo of Kelly Bhuva, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, CPNP-PC, MSN
Kelly Bhuva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, CPNP-PC, MSN
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
At Psychiatric Medicine and Wellness LLC, I am committed to promoting mental health and emotional well-being through compassionate, evidence-based care. As a double board-certified Pediatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in comprehensive medication management and personalized treatment for children, adolescents, and adults.
At Psychiatric Medicine and Wellness LLC, I am committed to promoting mental health and emotional well-being through compassionate, evidence-based care. As a double board-certified Pediatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience, I specialize in comprehensive medication management and personalized treatment for children, adolescents, and adults.
(862) 429-3842 View (862) 429-3842
Photo of David A. Mitnick, Psychiatrist, MD
David A. Mitnick
Psychiatrist, MD
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
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
Photo of Dr. Krishan Chirimunj, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Krishan Chirimunj
Psychiatrist, MD
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
I work with children, teens, college students and young adults and serve patients of all ages on a range of psychiatric issues. As someone who grew up here in Bergen County, I can personally appreciate the challenges that many can have growing up and living here, and also with parents raising children here.
I work with children, teens, college students and young adults and serve patients of all ages on a range of psychiatric issues. As someone who grew up here in Bergen County, I can personally appreciate the challenges that many can have growing up and living here, and also with parents raising children here.
(551) 291-1714 View (551) 291-1714
Photo of Bryan Omalley - MedPsych Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist
MedPsych Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
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 Ashish Anand, Psychiatrist, MD
Ashish Anand
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working with children, teens, and adults. I help patients understand how emotional struggles develop in the context of their lives, relationships, and inner experiences. Trained in psychiatry and psychodynamically informed therapy, I combine medication and psychotherapy when it’s most helpful. Together, we explore patterns, uncover the meaning behind symptoms, and develop more flexible ways of coping and relating to others.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working with children, teens, and adults. I help patients understand how emotional struggles develop in the context of their lives, relationships, and inner experiences. Trained in psychiatry and psychodynamically informed therapy, I combine medication and psychotherapy when it’s most helpful. Together, we explore patterns, uncover the meaning behind symptoms, and develop more flexible ways of coping and relating to others.
(201) 701-2961 View (201) 701-2961
Faiz Cheema
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist. I did my residency at Bergen Regional Medical Center and I was appointed as an Executive Chief Resident during my residency. I have been working as an attending at Bergen Regional Medical Center since July 2010. I teach medical students and the residents at Bergen Regional Medical Center. I also teach medical students from Rutckers University School of Medicine. I was awarded "The Best Teacher Award" in 2013 at Bergen Regional Medical Center Psychiatry Residency Training Program. I specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder. It will be my honor to work with you.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist. I did my residency at Bergen Regional Medical Center and I was appointed as an Executive Chief Resident during my residency. I have been working as an attending at Bergen Regional Medical Center since July 2010. I teach medical students and the residents at Bergen Regional Medical Center. I also teach medical students from Rutckers University School of Medicine. I was awarded "The Best Teacher Award" in 2013 at Bergen Regional Medical Center Psychiatry Residency Training Program. I specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder. It will be my honor to work with you.
(404) 846-4652 View (404) 846-4652

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Nancy Frederic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Frederic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Montclair, NJ 07042
My ideal client is open minded and ready to see a positive change in their lives. By working with me, clients gain additional insight and tools to help target specific issues that they may be struggling with.
My ideal client is open minded and ready to see a positive change in their lives. By working with me, clients gain additional insight and tools to help target specific issues that they may be struggling with.
(862) 366-4952 View (862) 366-4952
Photo of Evelyn O, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Evelyn O
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
I am a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience in providing holistic, patient-centered care. I specialize in addressing both physical and mental health needs, helping individuals and families navigate challenges to achieve overall well-being. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, ensuring that you feel supported as we work together toward your health goals. I provide compassionate, personalized care, using evidence-based therapies to support your journey.
I am a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience in providing holistic, patient-centered care. I specialize in addressing both physical and mental health needs, helping individuals and families navigate challenges to achieve overall well-being. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, ensuring that you feel supported as we work together toward your health goals. I provide compassionate, personalized care, using evidence-based therapies to support your journey.
(856) 388-5152 View (856) 388-5152
Photo of Pattie James, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Pattie James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Serves Area
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
My ideal client is committed to accomplishing personal goals through a collaborative relationship built on trust, accountability, and communication. The ideal client is driven to explore the root cause of issues, recognize the work required to promote psychological well-being, and utilize available resources. Clients present with issues from past experiences and current stressors that impact their personal, professional, and social lives. My ideal client is willing to gain a broader understanding of these issues, desire personal growth, and develop effective coping skills that will manifest in an improved quality of life.
(856) 666-7604 View (856) 666-7604
Photo of Dr. Sandy Hussain, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Dr. Sandy Hussain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
West Orange, NJ 07052
Hi, I’m Dr. Sandy Hussain, DNP, PMHNP‑BC a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about helping adults manage anxiety, sleep issues, ADHD, depression, and more. I create personalized medication plans designed to make life feel lighter and more manageable. I offer in-person sessions in West Orange, NJ, as well as telehealth services to clients throughout New Jersey, ensuring support is always within reach. I’m also the founder and provider at Hope Health Care Solutions, where compassionate, client-centered care is always our priority.
Hi, I’m Dr. Sandy Hussain, DNP, PMHNP‑BC a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about helping adults manage anxiety, sleep issues, ADHD, depression, and more. I create personalized medication plans designed to make life feel lighter and more manageable. I offer in-person sessions in West Orange, NJ, as well as telehealth services to clients throughout New Jersey, ensuring support is always within reach. I’m also the founder and provider at Hope Health Care Solutions, where compassionate, client-centered care is always our priority.
(862) 263-7275 View (862) 263-7275
Photo of Ann Marie Linden - Linden Psychiatric Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Linden Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"- Lao Tzu......... Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, sad or confused. I believe mental health issues have biological, psychological and social roots. My practice provides medication management to address symptoms in addition to person-centered therapy to help identify and resolve negative perceptions and dysfunctional behavior patterns.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"- Lao Tzu......... Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, sad or confused. I believe mental health issues have biological, psychological and social roots. My practice provides medication management to address symptoms in addition to person-centered therapy to help identify and resolve negative perceptions and dysfunctional behavior patterns.
(732) 372-0070 View (732) 372-0070
Photo of Moji Dabney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Moji Dabney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Hi, I’m Moji Dabney, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who helps teens and adults find balance, clarity, and relief from anxiety, depression, and life’s challenges. I know how hard it can be to reach out for help when you feel overwhelmed or stuck. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, blending CBT, ACT, and mindfulness with individualized medication management. As a yoga instructor, I value the mind-body connection and help clients feel grounded, centered, and empowered to heal and grow.
Hi, I’m Moji Dabney, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who helps teens and adults find balance, clarity, and relief from anxiety, depression, and life’s challenges. I know how hard it can be to reach out for help when you feel overwhelmed or stuck. My approach is collaborative and compassionate, blending CBT, ACT, and mindfulness with individualized medication management. As a yoga instructor, I value the mind-body connection and help clients feel grounded, centered, and empowered to heal and grow.
(856) 215-3935 View (856) 215-3935
Photo of Akia Blandon - New Beginnings Healthcare , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
New Beginnings Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Are you seeking a holistic approach to your mental and emotional health? Dr. Akia Blandon is here to help. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Dr. Blandon is an Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to fostering your overall wellness. As the President and CEO of New Beginnings HealthCare, PLLC, Dr. Blandon offers compassionate care that integrates mental health support with lifestyle coaching. Her holistic practice serves individuals across NY, NJ, and PA, focusing on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Join a community that prioritizes your health. Dr. Blandon
Are you seeking a holistic approach to your mental and emotional health? Dr. Akia Blandon is here to help. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Dr. Blandon is an Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to fostering your overall wellness. As the President and CEO of New Beginnings HealthCare, PLLC, Dr. Blandon offers compassionate care that integrates mental health support with lifestyle coaching. Her holistic practice serves individuals across NY, NJ, and PA, focusing on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Join a community that prioritizes your health. Dr. Blandon
(272) 233-4490 View (272) 233-4490
New Jersey Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cliffside Park, NJ 07010
At New Jersey Wellness Center we specialize in the treatment of Substance Use disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder. We are committed to treating the individual client and their families with caring, qualified professionals in the field of psychiatry, clinical alcohol and drug counseling, mental health, social work, education and recovery support. Our team of experts will address underlying causes of substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients toward a successful and lasting recovery.
At New Jersey Wellness Center we specialize in the treatment of Substance Use disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder. We are committed to treating the individual client and their families with caring, qualified professionals in the field of psychiatry, clinical alcohol and drug counseling, mental health, social work, education and recovery support. Our team of experts will address underlying causes of substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients toward a successful and lasting recovery.
(201) 399-3640 View (201) 399-3640
Photo of Shirley Garcia Silva, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Shirley Garcia Silva
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Harrison, NJ 07029
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I help individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I take a holistic, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or relationship struggles, we will work together to create meaningful change
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? I help individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. I take a holistic, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or relationship struggles, we will work together to create meaningful change
(848) 213-9432 View (848) 213-9432
Photo of Tony Issac - Treatment for Depression and Anxiety, Psychiatrist, MD
Treatment for Depression and Anxiety
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Dr. Issac is an experienced general and addiction psychiatrist in Ridgewood, NJ, with eight years of clinical expertise. He specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Issac takes a holistic, evidence-based approach by evaluating medical, nutritional, and hormonal factors that may impact mental health. Combining medication management with psychotherapy, he creates personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery and well-being.
Dr. Issac is an experienced general and addiction psychiatrist in Ridgewood, NJ, with eight years of clinical expertise. He specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Issac takes a holistic, evidence-based approach by evaluating medical, nutritional, and hormonal factors that may impact mental health. Combining medication management with psychotherapy, he creates personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery and well-being.
(201) 482-3451 View (201) 482-3451
Photo of Navjot Khinda, Psychiatrist, MD
Navjot Khinda
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
The decision to engage in therapy, initiate or discontinue medications may be difficult and anxiety provoking. Dr. Khinda’s warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental treatment approach assists in providing patient centered care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Khinda will work to specifically tailor treatment to the unique strengths and values of each individual, whether that means medication management, therapy, or a novel approach. Dr. Khinda is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She has trained at large, reputable healthcare systems.
The decision to engage in therapy, initiate or discontinue medications may be difficult and anxiety provoking. Dr. Khinda’s warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental treatment approach assists in providing patient centered care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Khinda will work to specifically tailor treatment to the unique strengths and values of each individual, whether that means medication management, therapy, or a novel approach. Dr. Khinda is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She has trained at large, reputable healthcare systems.
(646) 760-3159 View (646) 760-3159
Photo of Kelly Doyle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kelly Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Kelly treats clients of all ages and always strives to provide a comfortable, safe, and therapeutic space for her clients on their path to mental wellness.
Kelly treats clients of all ages and always strives to provide a comfortable, safe, and therapeutic space for her clients on their path to mental wellness.
(201) 880-7440 View (201) 880-7440
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 Maryanna Vrettos Domenic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ
Maryanna Vrettos Domenic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, CSN-NJ
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner committed to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve mental wellness. When crafting personalized treatment plans, I emphasize open communication and collaborative decision-making to foster patients' overall well-being and resilience in addressing mental health concerns. I value collaboration & teamwork in my practice, actively involving patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. I strive to provide holistic care by incorporating non-pharmacological interventions with traditional treatments, thereby promoting comprehensive mental wellness.
I am a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner committed to empowering individuals of all ages to achieve mental wellness. When crafting personalized treatment plans, I emphasize open communication and collaborative decision-making to foster patients' overall well-being and resilience in addressing mental health concerns. I value collaboration & teamwork in my practice, actively involving patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams. I strive to provide holistic care by incorporating non-pharmacological interventions with traditional treatments, thereby promoting comprehensive mental wellness.
(908) 257-8291 View (908) 257-8291

See more therapy options for 07452

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07452

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07452 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Child
83% ADHD
83% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Oxford
50% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 07452 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Male
25% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07452?

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.