Psychiatrists in 07601
Myneurva Brain Centers specializes in medical-grade neurofeedback therapy for many neurological and psychological conditions.
At Myneurva Brain Centers we understand that mental health is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Under the expert care of Dr. Freddy Starr, MD, FAACAP, our practice is dedicated to offering compassionate, personalized care for individuals facing neurological and psychiatric challenges.
Myneurva Brain Centers specializes in medical-grade neurofeedback therapy for many neurological and psychological conditions.
At Myneurva Brain Centers we understand that mental health is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Under the expert care of Dr. Freddy Starr, MD, FAACAP, our practice is dedicated to offering compassionate, personalized care for individuals facing neurological and psychiatric challenges.
Dr. Saxena is a licensed Psychiatrist in New Jersey and New York, specializing in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Saxena has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, Veterans population, and emergency settings. Additionally, he also has an extensive experience on the academic front training both medical students and Psychiatry resident physicians in NY and NJ. He is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), psychotherapy, medication management, or combination.
Dr. Saxena is a licensed Psychiatrist in New Jersey and New York, specializing in both Adult Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Saxena has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, Veterans population, and emergency settings. Additionally, he also has an extensive experience on the academic front training both medical students and Psychiatry resident physicians in NY and NJ. He is trained in multiple therapy approaches such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), psychotherapy, medication management, or combination.
Dr. Kolmos is proudly part of Tri America Health & Wellness and is offering tele-visits for adults and children. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Rutgers University. Her training covers mental health treatment across the lifespan including pharmacological management of psychiatric disorders and multiple therapeutic modalities. She is accepting new clients for in-person or online in NJ and online in NY, PA, and FL.
Dr. Kolmos is proudly part of Tri America Health & Wellness and is offering tele-visits for adults and children. She is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Rutgers University. Her training covers mental health treatment across the lifespan including pharmacological management of psychiatric disorders and multiple therapeutic modalities. She is accepting new clients for in-person or online in NJ and online in NY, PA, and FL.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. For Example, I to specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. For Example, I to specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
As a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have always believed in the power of personalized care in promoting mental well-being. My journey in the field of mental health has been guided by principles of empathic understanding, I have had the privilege of working with patients across the lifespan, helping them navigate the complexities of mental health challenges with a holistic and individualized approach. My experience in both medication management and therapy has allowed me to tailor treatment plans that address the unique needs and goals of each individual under my care.
As a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I have always believed in the power of personalized care in promoting mental well-being. My journey in the field of mental health has been guided by principles of empathic understanding, I have had the privilege of working with patients across the lifespan, helping them navigate the complexities of mental health challenges with a holistic and individualized approach. My experience in both medication management and therapy has allowed me to tailor treatment plans that address the unique needs and goals of each individual under my care.
Hi, I’m Eunice and I’m so glad you’re here. For over 24 years, I’ve worked with adults facing everything from anxiety and depression to major life transitions, mood disorders, and more complex mental health challenges.
I started UniMind because I believe in personalized psychiatric care that actually listens. I offer evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and supportive therapy to adults 18 and up—with honesty, empathy, and respect at the center of everything.
Whether this is your first time seeking care or your twentieth, I’d be honored to join you wherever you are on your path. Let’s move forward—together.
Hi, I’m Eunice and I’m so glad you’re here. For over 24 years, I’ve worked with adults facing everything from anxiety and depression to major life transitions, mood disorders, and more complex mental health challenges.
I started UniMind because I believe in personalized psychiatric care that actually listens. I offer evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and supportive therapy to adults 18 and up—with honesty, empathy, and respect at the center of everything.
Whether this is your first time seeking care or your twentieth, I’d be honored to join you wherever you are on your path. Let’s move forward—together.
Hello! I’m Solande Destin, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about helping individuals navigate mental health challenges with extensive training and experience in medication management and psychotherapy.
My Approach:
I believe in a collaborative, client-centered approach to care. We will develop a treatment plan that suits your unique needs, values, and goals during our sessions. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable and empowered to explore your mental health journey. Whether you’re seeking medication management, therapy, or a com
Hello! I’m Solande Destin, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) passionate about helping individuals navigate mental health challenges with extensive training and experience in medication management and psychotherapy.
My Approach:
I believe in a collaborative, client-centered approach to care. We will develop a treatment plan that suits your unique needs, values, and goals during our sessions. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable and empowered to explore your mental health journey. Whether you’re seeking medication management, therapy, or a com
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with a rich experience in Psychiatry. I was Clinical Director of an in-patient child and adolescent unit for 6 years and I have worked managing patients of all age groups in the out-patient setting. I have a special interest in treating Mood Disorders, ADHD and Anxiety Disorders. Life presents challenges and I help individuals develop appropriate ways to be successful at overcoming these difficulties. I provide a warm private and confidential setting that engenders hope and trust.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with a rich experience in Psychiatry. I was Clinical Director of an in-patient child and adolescent unit for 6 years and I have worked managing patients of all age groups in the out-patient setting. I have a special interest in treating Mood Disorders, ADHD and Anxiety Disorders. Life presents challenges and I help individuals develop appropriate ways to be successful at overcoming these difficulties. I provide a warm private and confidential setting that engenders hope and trust.
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
I’m a Psychiatric Provider that listens, shows compassion, and empathizes. I look forward to helping you rebuild your mental health by providing both pharmacological and holistic treatment plans. Rather you have ADHD, Depression, anxiety and/or insomnia, help is just a call away. We treat each client from a personal perspective and provide individualized psychiatric treatment plans that helps to rebuild your mental health.
TMR is a comprehensive private practice. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to people of all ages. We offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. Our staff consists of a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychotherapists (Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Professional Counselors), Nutritionist, and Clinical Psychologists who perform psychological testing and evaluations.
TMR is a comprehensive private practice. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to people of all ages. We offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. Our staff consists of a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychotherapists (Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Professional Counselors), Nutritionist, and Clinical Psychologists who perform psychological testing and evaluations.
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” It has been said that our greatest growth often begins in the very places where we feel most uncertain.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in New Jersey and New York, I specialize in helping adults and adolescents navigate anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, and major life changes. Mental health struggles are not weaknesses, but deeply human experiences that can open the door to self-exploration and growth.
I feel strongly about creating a space where you can speak openly, feel heard, and know that you are truly supported in your journey
“Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” It has been said that our greatest growth often begins in the very places where we feel most uncertain.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in New Jersey and New York, I specialize in helping adults and adolescents navigate anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, and major life changes. Mental health struggles are not weaknesses, but deeply human experiences that can open the door to self-exploration and growth.
I feel strongly about creating a space where you can speak openly, feel heard, and know that you are truly supported in your journey
Dr. Datta helps patients untangle the psychological and emotional roots of their struggles, going beyond quick fixes to achieve true transformation. He fine-tunes medications with precision, ensuring they work in harmony with the mind and body, rather than masking deeper issues. By integrating psychotherapy, EMDR, and meditation, he helps patients break free from negative cycles, rediscover their authentic selves, and cultivate lasting emotional balance. His approach isn’t about just managing symptoms - it’s about reshaping your inner world so you can live with greater clarity, purpose, and fulfillment.
Dr. Datta helps patients untangle the psychological and emotional roots of their struggles, going beyond quick fixes to achieve true transformation. He fine-tunes medications with precision, ensuring they work in harmony with the mind and body, rather than masking deeper issues. By integrating psychotherapy, EMDR, and meditation, he helps patients break free from negative cycles, rediscover their authentic selves, and cultivate lasting emotional balance. His approach isn’t about just managing symptoms - it’s about reshaping your inner world so you can live with greater clarity, purpose, and fulfillment.
Dr. Kaushiki Kapoor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -Can, treat, all, ages
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I am a board certified licensed Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years experience in healthcare. Low-income New Jersey residents are warmly welcomed into my private practice. If your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (2025 guidelines: $30,120/year for one person, $40,880 for two, $51,640 for three, $62,400 for four), you may qualify for individual therapy sessions at a reduced private-pay rate of only $25 per visit. To confirm eligibility for this reduced rate, you will need to present your most recent federal income tax return (most recent year)SEEK help. Call our office today.
I am a board certified licensed Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years experience in healthcare. Low-income New Jersey residents are warmly welcomed into my private practice. If your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (2025 guidelines: $30,120/year for one person, $40,880 for two, $51,640 for three, $62,400 for four), you may qualify for individual therapy sessions at a reduced private-pay rate of only $25 per visit. To confirm eligibility for this reduced rate, you will need to present your most recent federal income tax return (most recent year)SEEK help. Call our office today.
Clients who are committed to becoming well and functioning at a level that expresses their ideal self are the clients that I most seek because my goal is to help clients achieve their best. The issues are always varied but their goals are aligned with a desire to achieve the best that they can be. I am not just about symptom relief as most medication prescribers are. I practice at Specialized Therapy Associates, LLC where clients can access a full range of services for mind-body health, such as, nutrition counseling to help overcome mood and sleep issues as an example or Yoga Therapy and mindfulness.
Clients who are committed to becoming well and functioning at a level that expresses their ideal self are the clients that I most seek because my goal is to help clients achieve their best. The issues are always varied but their goals are aligned with a desire to achieve the best that they can be. I am not just about symptom relief as most medication prescribers are. I practice at Specialized Therapy Associates, LLC where clients can access a full range of services for mind-body health, such as, nutrition counseling to help overcome mood and sleep issues as an example or Yoga Therapy and mindfulness.
TMS therapy & treatment has been researched for more than 30 years. In the United States, TMS therapy was first approved by the FDA in 2008 for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have tried medications with no satisfactory results. Since TMS therapy has proven to be effective for the majority of patients treated, researchers are now studying its effectiveness for many other psychiatric and neurological conditions.
TMS therapy & treatment has been researched for more than 30 years. In the United States, TMS therapy was first approved by the FDA in 2008 for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have tried medications with no satisfactory results. Since TMS therapy has proven to be effective for the majority of patients treated, researchers are now studying its effectiveness for many other psychiatric and neurological conditions.
Life transitions, hormonal changes, and major milestones, such as pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or menopause, can deeply affect emotional well-being. If you’re feeling anxious, down, or simply “not like yourself,” you’re not alone. Effective, compassionate support is available.
I’m Dr. Yokarla Veras, a board-certified psychiatrist with advanced fellowship training in Women’s and Reproductive Mental Health. I also serve as an Instructor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University. My work focuses on helping women and adults navigate depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, and mood changes related to pregnancy or menopause.
Life transitions, hormonal changes, and major milestones, such as pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or menopause, can deeply affect emotional well-being. If you’re feeling anxious, down, or simply “not like yourself,” you’re not alone. Effective, compassionate support is available.
I’m Dr. Yokarla Veras, a board-certified psychiatrist with advanced fellowship training in Women’s and Reproductive Mental Health. I also serve as an Instructor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University. My work focuses on helping women and adults navigate depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, PMDD, and mood changes related to pregnancy or menopause.
My clinical focus is medication management supported by solution-focused techniques and motivational interviewing to help individuals identify strengths, overcome barriers, and achieve lasting, meaningful change. I have worked extensively with individuals recovering from addiction as well as members of law enforcement, bringing a trauma-informed and goal-oriented lens to care. I also spent many years working within public school systems. This experience has strengthened my ability to support youth, families, and educators in navigating complex emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges in school settings.
My clinical focus is medication management supported by solution-focused techniques and motivational interviewing to help individuals identify strengths, overcome barriers, and achieve lasting, meaningful change. I have worked extensively with individuals recovering from addiction as well as members of law enforcement, bringing a trauma-informed and goal-oriented lens to care. I also spent many years working within public school systems. This experience has strengthened my ability to support youth, families, and educators in navigating complex emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges in school settings.
Dr. Yissell Delvalle is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Board Certified Addiction Medicine Doctor, who graduated from UMDNJ-Rutgers Medical School in Newark. She particularly treats patients with Treatment Resistant Depression, addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, Treatment-Resistant Depression, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
Dr. Yissell Delvalle is a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Board Certified Addiction Medicine Doctor, who graduated from UMDNJ-Rutgers Medical School in Newark. She particularly treats patients with Treatment Resistant Depression, addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, Treatment-Resistant Depression, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
See more therapy options for 07601
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 07601
40+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 07601 who prioritize treating:
| 93% | Depression |
| 93% | Anxiety |
| 78% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 78% | Bipolar Disorder |
| 70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
| 68% | ADHD |
| 68% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 90% | Aetna |
| 83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 77% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 07601 see their clients
| 70% | In Person and Online | |
| 30% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 75% | Female | |
| 25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 07601?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


