Psychiatrists in 07514

Photo of Wanda Hedian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Wanda Hedian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
As a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals improve their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. I provide compassionate, stigma-free care in a safe and accepting environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their healing journey. My holistic approach focuses on treating the whole person—not just symptoms—to support lasting recovery, self-care, and overall wellness. I am licensed to practice in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
As a dual-certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals improve their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. I provide compassionate, stigma-free care in a safe and accepting environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their healing journey. My holistic approach focuses on treating the whole person—not just symptoms—to support lasting recovery, self-care, and overall wellness. I am licensed to practice in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
(717) 452-4583 View (717) 452-4583
Photo of Tuzeen Shakir, Psychiatrist, MD
Tuzeen Shakir
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Compassionate Mental Health Care in NJ & NY. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating adults and geriatric patients. I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorders. I am also TMS-certified, offering cutting-edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy for treatment-resistant depression and OCD. Every patient deserves compassionate, personalized care. Let’s work together to restore balance and well-being. Contact me today to schedule an appointment.
Compassionate Mental Health Care in NJ & NY. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience treating adults and geriatric patients. I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorders. I am also TMS-certified, offering cutting-edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy for treatment-resistant depression and OCD. Every patient deserves compassionate, personalized care. Let’s work together to restore balance and well-being. Contact me today to schedule an appointment.
(732) 203-5166 View (732) 203-5166

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Yana Serobyan, Psychiatrist, MD, DO
Yana Serobyan
Psychiatrist, MD, DO
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m Dr. Yana Serobyan, a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. I help children struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or depression; teens navigating identity, stress, or family conflict; and adults facing life transitions, trauma, or mood disorders. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each developmental stage. Together, we work toward restoring balance, building resilience, and creating a stronger foundation for emotional well-being at any stage of life.
I’m Dr. Yana Serobyan, a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. I help children struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or depression; teens navigating identity, stress, or family conflict; and adults facing life transitions, trauma, or mood disorders. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each developmental stage. Together, we work toward restoring balance, building resilience, and creating a stronger foundation for emotional well-being at any stage of life.
(929) 556-4143 View (929) 556-4143
Photo of Roey Pasternak, Psychiatrist, MD
Roey Pasternak
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
Dr. Pasternak is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist currently practicing in Manhattan, New York and Englewood, New Jersey. He is dually Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and is licensed to practice in the both the State of New York and New Jersey. Pasternak incorporates psycho-dynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive therapies, and psychopharmacological management, tailoring his approach to meet the specific needs of each client. Dr. Pasternak is very experienced in treating anxiety disorders utilizing psychopharmacological management in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy.
Dr. Pasternak is a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist currently practicing in Manhattan, New York and Englewood, New Jersey. He is dually Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and is licensed to practice in the both the State of New York and New Jersey. Pasternak incorporates psycho-dynamic, cognitive behavioral, supportive therapies, and psychopharmacological management, tailoring his approach to meet the specific needs of each client. Dr. Pasternak is very experienced in treating anxiety disorders utilizing psychopharmacological management in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy.
(917) 688-4070 View (917) 688-4070
Photo of Lateef Ajanaku-Makun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Lateef Ajanaku-Makun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Irvington, NJ 07111
My end goal is to restore and solidify feelings of stability and well-being into the lives of each and every single one of my clients. I work hard to advocate for all of my clients, especially those that struggle to be heard or well-respected. As a board-certified nurse in family psychiatry and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in psychiatry, I have garnered extensive experience in evidence-based patient-oriented practice. I have worked in this field for over 13 years with experience at different nursing levels and a strong grasp of holistic mental heath care.
My end goal is to restore and solidify feelings of stability and well-being into the lives of each and every single one of my clients. I work hard to advocate for all of my clients, especially those that struggle to be heard or well-respected. As a board-certified nurse in family psychiatry and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice in psychiatry, I have garnered extensive experience in evidence-based patient-oriented practice. I have worked in this field for over 13 years with experience at different nursing levels and a strong grasp of holistic mental heath care.
(973) 425-5136 View (973) 425-5136
Photo of Olabisi Fafore - The Cornerstone Mental Health Center LLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
The Cornerstone Mental Health Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel overwhelming, whether it’s anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or stress from work and relationships. If you’ve been carrying these challenges, you don’t have to do it alone. I provide compassionate, holistic psychiatric care that blends therapy and medication management to support healing and balance. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Georgia, I work with teens and adults to create personalized treatment plans that fit your unique needs.
Life can feel overwhelming, whether it’s anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or stress from work and relationships. If you’ve been carrying these challenges, you don’t have to do it alone. I provide compassionate, holistic psychiatric care that blends therapy and medication management to support healing and balance. As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner licensed in Georgia, I work with teens and adults to create personalized treatment plans that fit your unique needs.
(470) 762-0910 View (470) 762-0910
Photo of Oksana Libelt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Oksana Libelt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
My name is Oksana Libelt. I have been in medicine almost 25 years. My clinical background include different varies of care from critical care to proctology. I have started my career in Russia and continued to peruse my profession in USA. I am living in Matawan, New Jersey with my husband and three children. Education has always been a big and important part of my life. My point of view is, as much as we know, the more we can offer for society and patients.
My name is Oksana Libelt. I have been in medicine almost 25 years. My clinical background include different varies of care from critical care to proctology. I have started my career in Russia and continued to peruse my profession in USA. I am living in Matawan, New Jersey with my husband and three children. Education has always been a big and important part of my life. My point of view is, as much as we know, the more we can offer for society and patients.
(908) 388-9197 View (908) 388-9197
Photo of Tom Zaubler, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Tom Zaubler
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Morristown, NJ 07960
I combine my decades of experience in academic psychiatry and my extensive knowledge of psychotherapeutic methods and psychopharmacology with empathy, focused listening and a caring responsiveness to provide personalized care to the patients in my practice, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates (www.PegasusPsych.com). I was Chair of the Dept. of Psychiatry at Morristown Medical Center (NJ's #1 rated hospital) for 21 years and am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University's Medical School. I am widely published, have national recognition for my research and have served on state-wide mental health committees.
I combine my decades of experience in academic psychiatry and my extensive knowledge of psychotherapeutic methods and psychopharmacology with empathy, focused listening and a caring responsiveness to provide personalized care to the patients in my practice, Pegasus Psychiatry Associates (www.PegasusPsych.com). I was Chair of the Dept. of Psychiatry at Morristown Medical Center (NJ's #1 rated hospital) for 21 years and am a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University's Medical School. I am widely published, have national recognition for my research and have served on state-wide mental health committees.
(973) 532-6930 View (973) 532-6930
Photo of Dr. Chukwudi Charles Orji - Advanced Professional Healthcare Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Advanced Professional Healthcare Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Our experienced and compassionate professionals put our clients and their mental health care needs first. At Advanced Professional Healthcare, we understand that every client is special and has a different need. We customize our treatment to suit the healthcare needs of our clients in a caring, respectful and confidential environment. We provide comprehensive assessment to assist with the right diagnosis and treatment for you and your family. We discuss your diagnosis with you and offer you treatment choices with medication management, therapy or combination to support your mental health care goals and maximize your recovery.
Our experienced and compassionate professionals put our clients and their mental health care needs first. At Advanced Professional Healthcare, we understand that every client is special and has a different need. We customize our treatment to suit the healthcare needs of our clients in a caring, respectful and confidential environment. We provide comprehensive assessment to assist with the right diagnosis and treatment for you and your family. We discuss your diagnosis with you and offer you treatment choices with medication management, therapy or combination to support your mental health care goals and maximize your recovery.
(908) 676-7929 View (908) 676-7929
Photo of Ann Rhatican, Psychiatric Nurse, PMH, CNS, APNC
Ann Rhatican
Psychiatric Nurse, PMH, CNS, APNC
Liberty Corner, NJ 07938
As an APN I have a strong conviction in the Mind Body connection which has led me to a holistic approach to care. My extensive experience in medical nursing as well as behavioral health nursing gives me a unique perspective, enabling me to identify the biopsychosocial needs of the client.My practice includes not only psychotherapy but also medication monitoring. In my prescriptive practice I work closely and collaborate with behavioral health clinicians and pschologists.
As an APN I have a strong conviction in the Mind Body connection which has led me to a holistic approach to care. My extensive experience in medical nursing as well as behavioral health nursing gives me a unique perspective, enabling me to identify the biopsychosocial needs of the client.My practice includes not only psychotherapy but also medication monitoring. In my prescriptive practice I work closely and collaborate with behavioral health clinicians and pschologists.
(908) 280-0268 View (908) 280-0268
Photo of Ugochi Abazie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Ugochi Abazie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Rahway, NJ 07065
I am currently accepting new patients who are interested in a personalized treatment approach. An ideal patient for this practice is an individual who is willing to engage in their treatment plan, and who is receptive to psychoeducation with the goal being their mental health stability. The patient is part of the team and this team approach allows for a more interactive treatment plan that enhances the outcome of care for the patient. This approach of care can positively improve the patient's life and day-to-day function.
I am currently accepting new patients who are interested in a personalized treatment approach. An ideal patient for this practice is an individual who is willing to engage in their treatment plan, and who is receptive to psychoeducation with the goal being their mental health stability. The patient is part of the team and this team approach allows for a more interactive treatment plan that enhances the outcome of care for the patient. This approach of care can positively improve the patient's life and day-to-day function.
(908) 293-7899 View (908) 293-7899
Photo of Mahip Gupta, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Mahip Gupta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
I, Mahip, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, has worked in this field for 9+ years. I obtained my Master of Science in PMHNP-BC from University of Pennsylvania. My background in medicine is extensive with a Doctor of Medicine Degree from India. My professional goal is to restore and solidify feelings of stability and well-being for each of my clients.
I, Mahip, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, has worked in this field for 9+ years. I obtained my Master of Science in PMHNP-BC from University of Pennsylvania. My background in medicine is extensive with a Doctor of Medicine Degree from India. My professional goal is to restore and solidify feelings of stability and well-being for each of my clients.
(856) 830-5551 View (856) 830-5551
Photo of Kesha Cheron, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
Kesha Cheron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is broadly experienced both as nurse and nurse practitioner. She works closely with her patients to help them meet their treatment goals. Kesha believes in a holistic approach and encourages patients to be active in their treatment plan to ensure desired outcomes are met. She helps patients manage their anxiety, depression, and many other conditions with new patient appointments available within 1-2 weeks currently (oct 2023).
Kesha is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is broadly experienced both as nurse and nurse practitioner. She works closely with her patients to help them meet their treatment goals. Kesha believes in a holistic approach and encourages patients to be active in their treatment plan to ensure desired outcomes are met. She helps patients manage their anxiety, depression, and many other conditions with new patient appointments available within 1-2 weeks currently (oct 2023).
(908) 774-2629 View (908) 774-2629
Photo of Eniola R Omisakin - Owens Health care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Owens Health care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Union, NJ 07083
My ideal client seeks support for issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They desire a safe space, compassionate listening, tailored treatment options, and effective coping strategies. Their goals include finding relief, developing healthier relationships, improving well-being, fostering personal growth and regaining balance and purpose. They choose professional help to gain expert guidance, evidence-based treatments, and a path towards empowerment and a meaningful life.
My ideal client seeks support for issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They desire a safe space, compassionate listening, tailored treatment options, and effective coping strategies. Their goals include finding relief, developing healthier relationships, improving well-being, fostering personal growth and regaining balance and purpose. They choose professional help to gain expert guidance, evidence-based treatments, and a path towards empowerment and a meaningful life.
(908) 521-4869 View (908) 521-4869
Photo of Bryan Omalley - MedPsych Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist
MedPsych Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist
Ramsey, NJ 07446
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 Claudette L Blake-Tonge, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Claudette L Blake-Tonge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Mountainside, NJ 07092
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or in need of compassionate support on your mental health journey? I am Dr. Claudette L. Blake, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals find balance, resilience, and hope. I specialize in providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments, medication management, and therapy tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or struggling with self-esteem, I’m here to guide you with evidence-based treatment and unwavering support. Your journey to healing starts here. Let’s take the first step together.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or in need of compassionate support on your mental health journey? I am Dr. Claudette L. Blake, DNP, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals find balance, resilience, and hope. I specialize in providing psychiatric diagnostic assessments, medication management, and therapy tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or struggling with self-esteem, I’m here to guide you with evidence-based treatment and unwavering support. Your journey to healing starts here. Let’s take the first step together.
(908) 888-9137 View (908) 888-9137
Photo of Dr. Payal K Shah, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Payal K Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Millburn, NJ 07041
I am a board certified child/adult psychiatrist with 20yrs of experience. My goal is to provide compassionate quality care and I use a comprehensive treatment approach. I use principles of Psychodynamic psychotherapy and CBT and integrate it with medication management. I have the experience of treating different kinds of disorders in children/teens/adults.
I am a board certified child/adult psychiatrist with 20yrs of experience. My goal is to provide compassionate quality care and I use a comprehensive treatment approach. I use principles of Psychodynamic psychotherapy and CBT and integrate it with medication management. I have the experience of treating different kinds of disorders in children/teens/adults.
(973) 791-7490 View (973) 791-7490
Photo of Hannah Twumwaa, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP B, AGNP-BC, PMH-NP
Hannah Twumwaa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP B, AGNP-BC, PMH-NP
Roseland, NJ 07068
As a board-certified provider in both Internal Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, I’m deeply committed to compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals on their mental health journey. I earned my BSN from William Paterson, MSN from Walden University, and Post-Master’s from Wilkes University. With a strong clinical foundation and a holistic approach, I strives to reduce stigma, promote resilience, and deliver personalized treatment that fosters healing and long-term well-being. My mission is to be a trusted ally for all patient supporting their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
As a board-certified provider in both Internal Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, I’m deeply committed to compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals on their mental health journey. I earned my BSN from William Paterson, MSN from Walden University, and Post-Master’s from Wilkes University. With a strong clinical foundation and a holistic approach, I strives to reduce stigma, promote resilience, and deliver personalized treatment that fosters healing and long-term well-being. My mission is to be a trusted ally for all patient supporting their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
(973) 791-4546 View (973) 791-4546
Photo of Adetutu Ogunmefun - Anchor Care: Adetutu Ogunmefun DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Anchor Care: Adetutu Ogunmefun DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
2 Endorsed
I am a compassionate and patient-focused practitioner with over ten years of experience in the healthcare field. Through active listening, I offer a combination of diverse clinical backgrounds in delivering high-quality patient care. I hold a doctorate in nursing from Rutgers University and am board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I am a compassionate and patient-focused practitioner with over ten years of experience in the healthcare field. Through active listening, I offer a combination of diverse clinical backgrounds in delivering high-quality patient care. I hold a doctorate in nursing from Rutgers University and am board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(908) 895-5484 View (908) 895-5484
Photo of Olga (Golda) Ryabinsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olga (Golda) Ryabinsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Welcome to my women-only practice, where compassionate care meets specialized expertise. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to women's mental health, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated, educated, and thoughtful about their treatment goals and outcomes.
Welcome to my women-only practice, where compassionate care meets specialized expertise. As a dedicated psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to women's mental health, I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated, educated, and thoughtful about their treatment goals and outcomes.
(848) 356-4606 View (848) 356-4606

See more therapy options for 07514

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07514

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07514 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Other
50% ADHD
50% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in 07514 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07514?

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.