Psychiatrists in 07481

Photo of Annamarie Marino, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Annamarie Marino, MSN, PHMNP-C, APN, PCAC
Annamarie Marino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Annamarie Marino, MSN, PHMNP-C, APN, PCAC
Wyckoff, NJ 07481
Living with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or mood challenges can affect every part of life; from work to home to relationships. It can make it difficult to manage energy, mood, focus, and productivity, often leaving you exhausted and discouraged while impacting overall wellbeing. But support is available, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Living with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or mood challenges can affect every part of life; from work to home to relationships. It can make it difficult to manage energy, mood, focus, and productivity, often leaving you exhausted and discouraged while impacting overall wellbeing. But support is available, you don’t have to go through it alone.
(201) 977-2831 View (201) 977-2831
Photo of Miracle Nwobu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Miracle Nwobu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
3 Endorsed
Wyckoff, NJ 07481
I'm Miracle! Book now to see me within 1-2 weeks! I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes every person deserves compassionate, evidence-based mental health care tailored to their unique journey. With experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals through every stage of their mental health journey. I specialize in working with people navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, and mood disturbances, always with the understanding that you are so much more than your symptoms.
I'm Miracle! Book now to see me within 1-2 weeks! I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes every person deserves compassionate, evidence-based mental health care tailored to their unique journey. With experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals through every stage of their mental health journey. I specialize in working with people navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, and mood disturbances, always with the understanding that you are so much more than your symptoms.
(732) 447-9470 View (732) 447-9470
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 Christopher Hannon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Christopher Hannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Serves Area
Dr. Hannon is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of clinical experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and seniors across New Jersey and New York. He focuses on trauma and PTSD, depression and anxiety, and substance use disorders — and brings additional training in EMDR therapy for trauma-focused work. His care combines medication management with therapy, calibrated to what each patient is carrying. Most patients meet with him by secure telehealth video, with in-person visits at our Paramus and Edison offices.
Dr. Hannon is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of clinical experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and seniors across New Jersey and New York. He focuses on trauma and PTSD, depression and anxiety, and substance use disorders — and brings additional training in EMDR therapy for trauma-focused work. His care combines medication management with therapy, calibrated to what each patient is carrying. Most patients meet with him by secure telehealth video, with in-person visits at our Paramus and Edison offices.
(201) 554-2218 View (201) 554-2218
Photo of Kathryn Tarpey Balsamo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Kathryn Tarpey Balsamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Serves Area
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP), with over 30 years of experience in healthcare, dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. My background includes extensive work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I have had the privilege of treating children, families, adolescents, and adults navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. I believe in creating a warm and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.
I am a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (CPNP), with over 30 years of experience in healthcare, dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized mental health care to individuals across the lifespan. My background includes extensive work in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I have had the privilege of treating children, families, adolescents, and adults navigating a wide range of mental health challenges. I believe in creating a warm and collaborative environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.
(551) 218-1156 View (551) 218-1156
Photo of Rita Jane Grogan, Psychiatrist, MD
Rita Jane Grogan
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
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
Photo of Rocio Jenkins - Bergen Mind Wellness LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Bergen Mind Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I help adults and young adults with ADHD, anxiety, and depression improve focus, reduce overwhelm, and feel more in control of their daily life. I offer medication management and supportive care in a warm, judgment-free space. Appointments are available via telehealth across New Jersey. You can book an appointment directly through my profile.
I help adults and young adults with ADHD, anxiety, and depression improve focus, reduce overwhelm, and feel more in control of their daily life. I offer medication management and supportive care in a warm, judgment-free space. Appointments are available via telehealth across New Jersey. You can book an appointment directly through my profile.
(201) 482-3579 View (201) 482-3579
Photo of Lia Hackett, Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APN
Lia Hackett
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APN
Serves Area
(201) 380-6943 View (201) 380-6943

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Daniella Gadaleta - Heart Mind Body LLC, Daniella Gadaleta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Heart Mind Body LLC, Daniella Gadaleta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sparta, NJ 07871
Before becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I began my career as a registered nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where I spent four years caring for patients with complex medical needs. In combination with my depth of clinical experience, I bring a personal understanding to my work. Navigating my own mental health challenges has sharpened my attunement to and empathy for the patients I serve. I strive to use what I have learned both professionally and personally to tailor my care in a way that suits each patient and addresses their unique needs.
Before becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I began my career as a registered nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where I spent four years caring for patients with complex medical needs. In combination with my depth of clinical experience, I bring a personal understanding to my work. Navigating my own mental health challenges has sharpened my attunement to and empathy for the patients I serve. I strive to use what I have learned both professionally and personally to tailor my care in a way that suits each patient and addresses their unique needs.
(973) 382-9547 View (973) 382-9547
Rehan Malik
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Clifton, NJ 07013
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
It is not uncommon for people to notice something is off, for some maybe your heart is racing in certain situations, or maybe you may not want to go out with friends and family as much as before the pandemic, have you been isolating more, eating less, trouble sleeping. It's very easy to just chalk it up to an "off day" or "stressful week" at work "it'll get better next week", well now it is just as easy to call and request a free consultation and get help for any issues going on new or old. We offer Tele-Health/ TeleMedicine Services, which allows you to have your visit from your home to allow for convivence/discretion.
(973) 348-3786 View (973) 348-3786
Photo of Abisoye Otunuga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abisoye Otunuga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Newark, NJ 07106
My ideal client appears high-functioning on the outside but feels overwhelmed, anxious, distracted, or emotionally exhausted inside. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood changes and are tired of just pushing through each day. They want real relief; better sleep, clearer focus, and emotional balance. Not just a prescription, but understanding. Their goal isn’t perfection, it’s peace. They’re ready for change and want a provider who listens, explains, and works with them.
My ideal client appears high-functioning on the outside but feels overwhelmed, anxious, distracted, or emotionally exhausted inside. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or mood changes and are tired of just pushing through each day. They want real relief; better sleep, clearer focus, and emotional balance. Not just a prescription, but understanding. Their goal isn’t perfection, it’s peace. They’re ready for change and want a provider who listens, explains, and works with them.
(973) 240-5562 View (973) 240-5562
Photo of Mojisola Dabney, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mojisola Dabney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University and have been working in behavioral health for over seven years. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. My practice emphasizes creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from Wilkes University and have been working in behavioral health for over seven years. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care to adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. My practice emphasizes creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered.
(267) 376-7346 View (267) 376-7346
Photo of Edena Walden, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
(856) 619-8286 View (856) 619-8286
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 Adaora Gbanite., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APRN
Adaora Gbanite.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APRN
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently licensed in New York and New Jersey. PaCal Psychiatry is focused on promoting self care, confidentiality and providing a safe space for mental health concerns. At PaCal Psychiatry, the optimal well being of every client is priority. My services include but are not limited to concierge mental health services, medication management, collaborative care and diagnoses for all age groups. I follow a personalized and concierge pathway to develop the appropriate mental health care plan.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, currently licensed in New York and New Jersey. PaCal Psychiatry is focused on promoting self care, confidentiality and providing a safe space for mental health concerns. At PaCal Psychiatry, the optimal well being of every client is priority. My services include but are not limited to concierge mental health services, medication management, collaborative care and diagnoses for all age groups. I follow a personalized and concierge pathway to develop the appropriate mental health care plan.
(862) 370-3822 View (862) 370-3822
Photo of Denise Owen-Fabricius, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN
Denise Owen-Fabricius
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN
Serves Area
Pairing therapy & medication to treat depression & anxiety can help you feel better faster with a 50- 60% improved rate of recovery. I treat issues, such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and OCD. One of my special interests is ADHD, both childhood & adult. I perform ADHD evals and treat ADHD, which includes prescribing stimulants, if warranted. Symptoms in adults can be poor listening skills, inability to follow through with tasks, low frustration tolerance, and impulsivity which can lead to a number of difficulties with your job, family relationships, friendships, romantic relationships, and other social connections.
Pairing therapy & medication to treat depression & anxiety can help you feel better faster with a 50- 60% improved rate of recovery. I treat issues, such as ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and OCD. One of my special interests is ADHD, both childhood & adult. I perform ADHD evals and treat ADHD, which includes prescribing stimulants, if warranted. Symptoms in adults can be poor listening skills, inability to follow through with tasks, low frustration tolerance, and impulsivity which can lead to a number of difficulties with your job, family relationships, friendships, romantic relationships, and other social connections.
(856) 600-6760 View (856) 600-6760
Photo of Aisha Ortiz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Aisha Ortiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Union, NJ 07083
At Kayla’s Creative Mind, we believe mental wellness is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Our mission is to empower you to create a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and uniquely yours. Through compassionate care and creative solutions, we’re here to help you turn challenges into opportunities for transformation.
At Kayla’s Creative Mind, we believe mental wellness is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Our mission is to empower you to create a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and uniquely yours. Through compassionate care and creative solutions, we’re here to help you turn challenges into opportunities for transformation.
(862) 418-1763 View (862) 418-1763
Photo of Caroline Severe, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Caroline Severe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
My ideal clients are adolescents and adults seeking support for mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. Many come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to manage their symptoms. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care that integrates medication management with psychoeducation and supportive therapy. My goal is to help clients gain insight, build coping skills, and move toward greater stability, resilience, and improved quality of life.
My ideal clients are adolescents and adults seeking support for mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. Many come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to manage their symptoms. I provide compassionate, evidence-based care that integrates medication management with psychoeducation and supportive therapy. My goal is to help clients gain insight, build coping skills, and move toward greater stability, resilience, and improved quality of life.
(973) 557-4430 View (973) 557-4430
Photo of Pearl Louie, Psychiatrist, MD
Pearl Louie
Psychiatrist, MD
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am also among one of the first psychiatrists in the country to also be board certified in the subspecialty of Psychosomatic Medicine. Prior to joining the Westfield practice, I was an instructor in psychiatry and clinical fellow on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. I graduated cum laude from Columbia University in NYC. I completed a medical psychiatry fellowship at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston as well as a research fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. Due to COVID-19 I am now providing telepsychiatry.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I am also among one of the first psychiatrists in the country to also be board certified in the subspecialty of Psychosomatic Medicine. Prior to joining the Westfield practice, I was an instructor in psychiatry and clinical fellow on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. I graduated cum laude from Columbia University in NYC. I completed a medical psychiatry fellowship at the Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston as well as a research fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. Due to COVID-19 I am now providing telepsychiatry.
(908) 913-6576 View (908) 913-6576
Photo of Akinlabi Sanusi, Psychiatrist, MD
Akinlabi Sanusi
Psychiatrist, MD
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best. I believe in the combination of medication management and psychotherapy for a quick return to functioning.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to patients. I completed a residency training in General and Adult Psychiatry at Richmond University Medical Center, Staten Island, New York, an affiliate program of the Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York. My treatment approach is based on the understanding that every individual is unique in their needs. After a careful assessment of your symptoms, I will work with you in creating the treatment plan that suits you best. I believe in the combination of medication management and psychotherapy for a quick return to functioning.
(732) 627-2660 View (732) 627-2660

See more therapy options for 07481

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07481

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07481 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
75% ADHD
75% Self Esteem
63% Trauma and PTSD
63% Medication Management
63% Stress

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Cigna and Evernorth
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Optum

How Psychiatrists in 07481 see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07481?

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.