Psychiatrists in 07480

Photo of Maryann Ryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Maryann Ryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
This is a space where hope thrives, healing begins, and possibilities unfold. As a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine for 20 years, I provide comprehensive mental health care, focusing on medication management. We offer interpreter services for most languages and ASL, and consultations can be in-office or virtual—because your comfort matters. With personal experience navigating ADD/ADHD, I am passionate about helping others manage this condition. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and mild cognitive impairment, offering tailored care to support you.
This is a space where hope thrives, healing begins, and possibilities unfold. As a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in psychiatry and family medicine for 20 years, I provide comprehensive mental health care, focusing on medication management. We offer interpreter services for most languages and ASL, and consultations can be in-office or virtual—because your comfort matters. With personal experience navigating ADD/ADHD, I am passionate about helping others manage this condition. I also specialize in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and mild cognitive impairment, offering tailored care to support you.
(845) 253-4850 View (845) 253-4850
Photo of Barbara Pangilinan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Barbara Pangilinan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I believe healing happens in a space where you feel safe, heard, and truly understood. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer a thoughtful blend of medication management and compassionate care tailored to you as a whole person.
I believe healing happens in a space where you feel safe, heard, and truly understood. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer a thoughtful blend of medication management and compassionate care tailored to you as a whole person.
(862) 358-4546 View (862) 358-4546

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Patricia Gazzola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-C
Patricia Gazzola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-C
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
(973) 587-2438 View (973) 587-2438
Photo of Bola Fadipe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Bola Fadipe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Union, NJ 07083
Welcome to Blessed Family Care & Mental Wellness, your partner in achieving optimal mental and physical health. Our founder, a dual board certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry with over 10 years of experience, leads our team of specialists in providing comprehensive psychiatric care. From children to adults, we offer personalized care plans and therapy to tackle a wide range of mental health concerns. Our aim is to provide a warm and welcoming environment that promotes healing and long-term change. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Welcome to Blessed Family Care & Mental Wellness, your partner in achieving optimal mental and physical health. Our founder, a dual board certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry with over 10 years of experience, leads our team of specialists in providing comprehensive psychiatric care. From children to adults, we offer personalized care plans and therapy to tackle a wide range of mental health concerns. Our aim is to provide a warm and welcoming environment that promotes healing and long-term change. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
(908) 373-5561 View (908) 373-5561
Photo of Sarah Fajgenbaum-Teslja, Psychiatrist, MD
Sarah Fajgenbaum-Teslja
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Does this sound familiar? You’re a high-performing professional, yet relentless anxiety and a harsh inner critic leave you feeling like an imposter. Or you’re the smart, creative type—told you have endless potential—yet unfinished projects and spiraling shame keep you stuck. Or maybe you’re a young adult trying to find your place in an unpredictable world, with your phone as your main source of comfort. TikTok says you have ADHD—maybe even autism—but deep down, you’re still not sure what fits.
Does this sound familiar? You’re a high-performing professional, yet relentless anxiety and a harsh inner critic leave you feeling like an imposter. Or you’re the smart, creative type—told you have endless potential—yet unfinished projects and spiraling shame keep you stuck. Or maybe you’re a young adult trying to find your place in an unpredictable world, with your phone as your main source of comfort. TikTok says you have ADHD—maybe even autism—but deep down, you’re still not sure what fits.
(973) 975-4352 View (973) 975-4352
Photo of Flavia Robey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Flavia Robey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07105
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Integrative psychiatry approach combining evidence-based medication with genetics, nutritional neuroscience, and lifestyle-informed care. Services available in English and Portuguese.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) providing medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. Integrative psychiatry approach combining evidence-based medication with genetics, nutritional neuroscience, and lifestyle-informed care. Services available in English and Portuguese.
(732) 538-6787 View (732) 538-6787
Photo of Dr. Michael Olla, Psychiatrist, PhD
Dr. Michael Olla
Psychiatrist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Norwood, NJ 07648
Dr. Michael Ollas is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery in Norwood, NJ, specializing in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management. Dr. Ollas combines behavioral therapies with the latest in psychopharmacology to treat addiction and substance use disorders. He provides crisis intervention, long-term mental health care, and Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Sublocade, supporting patients on their journey to lasting sobriety.
Dr. Michael Ollas is a psychiatrist at Valley Spring Recovery in Norwood, NJ, specializing in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis. He offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized medication management. Dr. Ollas combines behavioral therapies with the latest in psychopharmacology to treat addiction and substance use disorders. He provides crisis intervention, long-term mental health care, and Medically Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Sublocade, supporting patients on their journey to lasting sobriety.
(551) 365-6816 View (551) 365-6816
Photo of Fanta Mian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Fanta Mian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mountainside, NJ 07092
Trust is the foundation of every relationship. My goal is to provide clear, honest, and helpful support whenever you need it. I strive to listen carefully, understand your needs, and give accurate information you can rely on. If there are multiple options, I’ll present them fairly so you can make the best decision for yourself. Most importantly, I am committed to being respectful, transparent, and dependable in every interaction. Your trust matters, and I will always work to earn it.
Trust is the foundation of every relationship. My goal is to provide clear, honest, and helpful support whenever you need it. I strive to listen carefully, understand your needs, and give accurate information you can rely on. If there are multiple options, I’ll present them fairly so you can make the best decision for yourself. Most importantly, I am committed to being respectful, transparent, and dependable in every interaction. Your trust matters, and I will always work to earn it.
(908) 641-3598 View (908) 641-3598
Photo of Marissa Stridiron - Connected Tele-Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Connected Tele-Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Millburn, NJ 07041
Choosing a psychiatrist is hard. Let me introduce myself. I am a working mother, spouse, and physician. I understand the challenges facing women and men today. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems are likely to emerge. I see adults with Anxiety/Depressive Disorders, Marital/Relationship difficulties and other Life Crises. I focus on present-day coping strategies and on bettering your understanding of the way your difficulties are related to overall life history. I do intensive work with people who want to improve their self-understanding, define goals and lead more productive lives.
Choosing a psychiatrist is hard. Let me introduce myself. I am a working mother, spouse, and physician. I understand the challenges facing women and men today. As life becomes more stressful and as we do less to take care of ourselves, problems are likely to emerge. I see adults with Anxiety/Depressive Disorders, Marital/Relationship difficulties and other Life Crises. I focus on present-day coping strategies and on bettering your understanding of the way your difficulties are related to overall life history. I do intensive work with people who want to improve their self-understanding, define goals and lead more productive lives.
(973) 544-8653 View (973) 544-8653
Photo of Nirmal Sathaye, Psychiatrist, MD
Nirmal Sathaye
Psychiatrist, MD
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
I am a Board-certified Psychiatrist with additional certification in Geriatrics. I have 20 plus years of experience treating patients in an outpatient setting. I provide diagnostic evaluation and medication monitoring for adults. I treat patients with different symptoms including anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolarity and attentional issues. I believe in a collaborative and team approach to treatment. I like to understand the patient’s goals and needs and formulate a personalized treatment plan. I provide telepsychiatry to all my patients. “
(908) 883-3879 View (908) 883-3879
Photo of Annette Allegra, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Annette Allegra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-C, MSN, PMHNP, LLC
Randolph, NJ 07869
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
I enjoy helping clients work toward feeling their best by medically treating and coaching them toward their greatest potential to live a more rewarding life. Due to my background of working with critically ill clients, as well as acute psychiatric and co-morbid illnesses, I am prepared to assist my clients in their journey towards better health. I work collaboratively with health providers as needed, and welcome collateral support for my clients if available. My experience includes treating a wide spectrum of conditions, which include but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
(862) 206-5391 View (862) 206-5391
Photo of Linda A Perry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Linda A Perry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
10 Endorsed
Saddle River, NJ 07458
If you or your child no longer feel real joy, I’d like to help. The core of my practice is judicious medication management. I’ve been doing this for many years: first as a nurse-midwife, now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am still dual-credentialed in both. I treat people of all types, but most frequently children and perinatal women. My patients, big and small, grapple with issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, OCD and eating disorders. Issues around fertility, pregnancy, parenting and menopause remain among my strengths, even though I rarely deliver babies anymore (and I miss it, sometimes!). My approach is holistic.
If you or your child no longer feel real joy, I’d like to help. The core of my practice is judicious medication management. I’ve been doing this for many years: first as a nurse-midwife, now as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I am still dual-credentialed in both. I treat people of all types, but most frequently children and perinatal women. My patients, big and small, grapple with issues like anxiety, trauma, depression, OCD and eating disorders. Issues around fertility, pregnancy, parenting and menopause remain among my strengths, even though I rarely deliver babies anymore (and I miss it, sometimes!). My approach is holistic.
(201) 676-8572 View (201) 676-8572
Photo of David Stern, Psychiatrist, MD
David Stern
Psychiatrist, MD
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, and I see children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I offer diagnostic evaluations, psycho-education, treatment planning sessions, and comprehensive psychopharmacological interventions.
(346) 214-8133 View (346) 214-8133
Photo of Alena Debrosse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, APN, RN
Alena Debrosse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, APN, RN
1 Endorsed
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Alena Debrosse has over 20 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and continues to help clients heal and grow optimally. Her focus is primarily on medication management but her approach is to get to know the whole person, your struggles, your supports and the environment in which you live. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting. She loves what she does and this will show in her interactions with you. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting.
Alena Debrosse has over 20 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and continues to help clients heal and grow optimally. Her focus is primarily on medication management but her approach is to get to know the whole person, your struggles, your supports and the environment in which you live. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting. She loves what she does and this will show in her interactions with you. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting.
(201) 537-4831 View (201) 537-4831
Photo of Vinod P. Suresh, Psychiatrist, MD
Vinod P. Suresh
Psychiatrist, MD
9 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing patient-centered care. I take pride in my ability to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions with evidence-based knowledge and novel methods. I have experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law and medical), LGBT clients, and survivors of trauma. I am licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing patient-centered care. I take pride in my ability to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions with evidence-based knowledge and novel methods. I have experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law and medical), LGBT clients, and survivors of trauma. I am licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts.
(551) 272-7103 View (551) 272-7103
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
Christopher Richards
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Triple board certified in Psychiatry, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. Integrative/holistic approach, psychotherapy, and use of medication when appropriate. Available for online video visits in 15+ states. New clients are kindly asked to schedule 1 day in advance. 24/7 scheduling and answering service in place. Look forward to collaborating with you!
Triple board certified in Psychiatry, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. Integrative/holistic approach, psychotherapy, and use of medication when appropriate. Available for online video visits in 15+ states. New clients are kindly asked to schedule 1 day in advance. 24/7 scheduling and answering service in place. Look forward to collaborating with you!
(833) 407-0830 View (833) 407-0830
Photo of Divya Patel, Psychiatrist, MD
Divya Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
As a Child and Adult psychiatrist I treat most conditions, offering psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and parent guidance. Parents of children struggling with anxiety, school avoidance, depression, impulsivity, or focus issues could hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of how to help their child navigate these difficulties and what tools exist to help support the child and the family system including therapeutic strategies and medications.
As a Child and Adult psychiatrist I treat most conditions, offering psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, and parent guidance. Parents of children struggling with anxiety, school avoidance, depression, impulsivity, or focus issues could hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of how to help their child navigate these difficulties and what tools exist to help support the child and the family system including therapeutic strategies and medications.
(551) 299-0419 View (551) 299-0419
Photo of Dr. Iroka Ifegwu - Divine Restorators Psychiatric Services LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Divine Restorators Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Union, NJ 07083
As a home-based PMHNP, I work with individuals who are often navigating complex emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges-ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma-related disorders. My ideal client is someone who values accessible, personalized care. With over 20 years of experience in psychiatric intake, i have been able to provide help without the barriers of traditional in-office visits through tele psychiatric services. I can provide a safe, supportive space where you will heal, grow, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
As a home-based PMHNP, I work with individuals who are often navigating complex emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges-ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma-related disorders. My ideal client is someone who values accessible, personalized care. With over 20 years of experience in psychiatric intake, i have been able to provide help without the barriers of traditional in-office visits through tele psychiatric services. I can provide a safe, supportive space where you will heal, grow, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
(908) 265-1691 View (908) 265-1691
Photo of Dr. Kate Salama, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Kate Salama
Psychiatrist, MD
Alpine, NJ 07620
I am a Harvard trained adult psychiatrist who specializes in women's mental health. Most women in my practice are struggling with mood symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, fertility, pregnancy & postpartum, as well as the menopause transition. I practice integrative psychiatry, which means I combine traditional pharmacotherapy with nutritional guidance, sleep optimization support, supplement regimens, hormonal testing and hormone replacement therapy, if indicated. Please visit my website for more details.
I am a Harvard trained adult psychiatrist who specializes in women's mental health. Most women in my practice are struggling with mood symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, fertility, pregnancy & postpartum, as well as the menopause transition. I practice integrative psychiatry, which means I combine traditional pharmacotherapy with nutritional guidance, sleep optimization support, supplement regimens, hormonal testing and hormone replacement therapy, if indicated. Please visit my website for more details.
(347) 913-8063 View (347) 913-8063

See more therapy options for 07480

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07480

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07480 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
50% Geriatric and Seniors
50% Child
50% ADHD
50% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
50% 1199SEIU

How Psychiatrists in 07480 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07480?

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.