Psychiatrists in 07607

Dr. Intisar Ibrahim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Maywood, NJ 07607
My ideal client may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. They often feel stuck, emotionally drained, or unsure how to move forward despite their efforts. They are seeking a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, identify the root causes of their distress, and develop healthier coping strategies. Their goal is healing, emotional growth, and regaining a sense of control, so they can live a fulfilling, balanced life free from the weight of past struggles.
My ideal client may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. They often feel stuck, emotionally drained, or unsure how to move forward despite their efforts. They are seeking a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, identify the root causes of their distress, and develop healthier coping strategies. Their goal is healing, emotional growth, and regaining a sense of control, so they can live a fulfilling, balanced life free from the weight of past struggles.
(201) 379-6209 View (201) 379-6209
Stephanie Konrad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Maywood, NJ 07607
Healing often begins when we finally pause long enough to hear what our inner world has been trying to tell us. I work with individuals seeking meaningful inner change and deeper self-understanding while navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood-related challenges. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Rutgers University, specializing in mood and anxiety disorders. I honor the mind–body–spirit connection and view mental health as a reflection of both the inner world and overall well-being.
Healing often begins when we finally pause long enough to hear what our inner world has been trying to tell us. I work with individuals seeking meaningful inner change and deeper self-understanding while navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or mood-related challenges. I’m a board-certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Rutgers University, specializing in mood and anxiety disorders. I honor the mind–body–spirit connection and view mental health as a reflection of both the inner world and overall well-being.
(551) 210-8904 View (551) 210-8904

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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
Dr. Shaheen Ali
Psychiatrist, MD
Edison, NJ 08820
You may be carrying pain no one else sees—grief after a pregnancy loss, the stress of living with a chronic illness, or the quiet fear that something isn't right and no one is listening. I've built my career at the intersection of medicine and emotion, supporting patients as they navigate deeply human experiences within complex systems. Before becoming a psychiatrist, I was a public school teacher. That experience taught me how to listen—not just to what's said, but to what's left unspoken. Today, I bring that same presence and attentiveness to my work with patients.
You may be carrying pain no one else sees—grief after a pregnancy loss, the stress of living with a chronic illness, or the quiet fear that something isn't right and no one is listening. I've built my career at the intersection of medicine and emotion, supporting patients as they navigate deeply human experiences within complex systems. Before becoming a psychiatrist, I was a public school teacher. That experience taught me how to listen—not just to what's said, but to what's left unspoken. Today, I bring that same presence and attentiveness to my work with patients.
(646) 846-0317 View (646) 846-0317
Ritesha Krishnappa
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
1 Endorsed
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Hello, I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist, a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and co-founder of Elevium Health, an interventional psychiatry practice located in Florham Park, NJ. Alongside traditional medication management and psychotherapy, I specialize in cutting-edge neuromodulation treatments, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato, and Ketamine therapy, to provide personalized, transformative care that fosters deep healing. Whatever you are going through, my goal is helping to empower you to overcome mental health challenges, and achieve lasting well-being.
Hello, I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist, a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and co-founder of Elevium Health, an interventional psychiatry practice located in Florham Park, NJ. Alongside traditional medication management and psychotherapy, I specialize in cutting-edge neuromodulation treatments, including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato, and Ketamine therapy, to provide personalized, transformative care that fosters deep healing. Whatever you are going through, my goal is helping to empower you to overcome mental health challenges, and achieve lasting well-being.
(973) 604-2359 View (973) 604-2359
Sarah M. Fitzgerald
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Waldwick, NJ 07463
I am interested in you and your family as a whole and I am committed to finding solutions that work best for you. When you are not feeling your best emotionally, it effects all parts of your life from relationships, your dreams, sleep, feelings of personal satisfaction, school, work and your physical health.
I am interested in you and your family as a whole and I am committed to finding solutions that work best for you. When you are not feeling your best emotionally, it effects all parts of your life from relationships, your dreams, sleep, feelings of personal satisfaction, school, work and your physical health.
(551) 209-1700 View (551) 209-1700
PMC Psychiatric Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, APN
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
Precious Medical Care (PMC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Clinic based in New Jersey. Our goal is to keep you healthy at all times. Our practice is staffed with highly qualified psychiatric providers with many years of experience helping mental health patients to regain sound health and mind. We provide mental health services to treat different types of diagnoses including; Psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Crisis Intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Drug Addiction, Comorbidity, Deficit Disorder, and Medication Management in both inpatients and outpatients settings.
(908) 840-8719 View (908) 840-8719
Dr. Michael Chung
Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Since I was 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist. I was enthralled by how humans were influenced by emotions and wanted to better understand that within myself and others. I am a board-certified NYU-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, who uses a holistic approach to carefully understand an individual's needs. I use a mix of psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine to alleviate symptoms. My hope is that you will feel better each time we meet. I have two office locations. Both are located conveniently near major transit sites (e.g. Penn Station and Grand Central).
Since I was 9 years old, I knew I wanted to be a psychiatrist. I was enthralled by how humans were influenced by emotions and wanted to better understand that within myself and others. I am a board-certified NYU-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, who uses a holistic approach to carefully understand an individual's needs. I use a mix of psychotherapy and psychiatric medicine to alleviate symptoms. My hope is that you will feel better each time we meet. I have two office locations. Both are located conveniently near major transit sites (e.g. Penn Station and Grand Central).
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Luchiee Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP
8 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, or another mental health condition? Are you tired of navigating the waters of your mental health condition by yourself? You are not alone. I am Dr. Oluchi Chilaka, founder of Luchiee Psychiatric Services, and I am here to help. Together we will find the right treatment for your mental health condition. We provide psychiatric treatment across life-span, we also offer a range of treatments and evidence-based practices, such as Medication Assistive Treatment (MAT) if you’re in need of substance abuse treatment with Suboxone.
(973) 221-8559 View (973) 221-8559
Shawn Lee Yaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-
Montclair, NJ 07043
I am a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience providing patient-centered, trauma-informed mental health care. My background in oncology, infusion medicine, and outpatient psychiatry allows me to understand the full picture of a person’s emotional and medical needs. I prioritize trust, compassion, and individualized treatment, blending evidence-based practice with genuine empathy so clients feel supported, heard, and empowered on their path toward wellness.
I am a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience providing patient-centered, trauma-informed mental health care. My background in oncology, infusion medicine, and outpatient psychiatry allows me to understand the full picture of a person’s emotional and medical needs. I prioritize trust, compassion, and individualized treatment, blending evidence-based practice with genuine empathy so clients feel supported, heard, and empowered on their path toward wellness.
(973) 874-2903 View (973) 874-2903
Eric Ross Behar
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My philosophy is based on the belief that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment. I work collaboratively with my patients to identify their specific needs and goals, and to develop a treatment plan that best suits them. The cost of an initial psychiatric appointment may seem high, it is reflective of the specialized training and expertise that my training brings to you. Additionally, the initial appointment is a crucial step in establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing a personalized treatment plan, which can ultimately lead to improved mental health and well-being.
My philosophy is based on the belief that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to their treatment. I work collaboratively with my patients to identify their specific needs and goals, and to develop a treatment plan that best suits them. The cost of an initial psychiatric appointment may seem high, it is reflective of the specialized training and expertise that my training brings to you. Additionally, the initial appointment is a crucial step in establishing a therapeutic relationship and developing a personalized treatment plan, which can ultimately lead to improved mental health and well-being.
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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.
(201) 949-0146 View (201) 949-0146
Maria Escobar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Montclair, NJ 07043
At MMC Psychiatric Care and Wellness, I understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, my practice is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses your specific needs. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a broad perspective to treatment, employing an integrative approach that combines traditional therapeutic methods with holistic strategies for a personalized and effective plan of care.
At MMC Psychiatric Care and Wellness, I understand that each individual’s mental health journey is unique. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, my practice is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care that addresses your specific needs. With experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a broad perspective to treatment, employing an integrative approach that combines traditional therapeutic methods with holistic strategies for a personalized and effective plan of care.
(973) 834-7674 View (973) 834-7674
Abdallah Ragab
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Paterson, NJ 07503
Our ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, alcohol abuse, or substance use disorder, who feels overwhelmed and uncertain about where to turn. They need compassionate, stigma-free support and effective treatment options that fit their lifestyle. Their goal is to regain control, achieve full remission of symptoms, and live a fulfilling, joyful life. Ultimately, they want to feel understood, empowered, and hopeful for their future. Some clients feel trapped by their mental illness, but that’s not true—healing is possible, and hope is always within reach.
Our ideal client is someone struggling with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, alcohol abuse, or substance use disorder, who feels overwhelmed and uncertain about where to turn. They need compassionate, stigma-free support and effective treatment options that fit their lifestyle. Their goal is to regain control, achieve full remission of symptoms, and live a fulfilling, joyful life. Ultimately, they want to feel understood, empowered, and hopeful for their future. Some clients feel trapped by their mental illness, but that’s not true—healing is possible, and hope is always within reach.
(973) 321-8326 View (973) 321-8326
Wendy Akoh-Brefo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
I work with individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Many of the people I support are navigating anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, major life transitions, or simply seeking a healthier and more balanced way of living. Clients often come to me when they are struggling to manage daily responsibilities, make sense of their emotions, communicate effectively, or feel confident about the next chapter of their lives.
I work with individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Many of the people I support are navigating anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, major life transitions, or simply seeking a healthier and more balanced way of living. Clients often come to me when they are struggling to manage daily responsibilities, make sense of their emotions, communicate effectively, or feel confident about the next chapter of their lives.
(908) 923-3238 View (908) 923-3238
Herma Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
East Orange, NJ 07018
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over 3 years of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia; Anxiety disorders; Bipolar Disorder; Depression; PTSD; Addiction; and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you not just mentally fulfilled but holistically.
I’m a Masters prepared Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of mental health experience, and over 3 years of working as a practitioner. I am passionate about the level of care rendered to my clients, only the best is good enough. I provide care to clients with Schizophrenia; Anxiety disorders; Bipolar Disorder; Depression; PTSD; Addiction; and Insomnia. Come to my nonjudgmental, patient centered facility and discover an experience that leaves you not just mentally fulfilled but holistically.
(973) 834-5521 View (973) 834-5521
John R Cooke
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and am board-certified in psychiatry. My background in medicine is diverse; I have also been an emergency physician. It is my professional conviction that one can live a meaningful and fulfilling life only through addressing the health of both the mind and the body. Thus, effective psychiatry must assess all aspects of a patient's condition.
I graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and am board-certified in psychiatry. My background in medicine is diverse; I have also been an emergency physician. It is my professional conviction that one can live a meaningful and fulfilling life only through addressing the health of both the mind and the body. Thus, effective psychiatry must assess all aspects of a patient's condition.
(973) 509-1500 View (973) 509-1500
Yissell Delvalle
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
West New York, NJ 07093
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.
(201) 864-4897 View (201) 864-4897
Patricia Gazzola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-C
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
(973) 587-2438 View (973) 587-2438
Vinod P. Suresh
Psychiatrist, MD
9 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing patient-centered care. I take pride in my ability to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions with evidence-based knowledge and appropriate psychotherapy tools. I have experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law and medical), LGBTQ clients, and survivors of trauma. I am licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts and can see patients remotely, but I appreciate the chance to meet in-person in my comfortable office in Montclair, NJ.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing patient-centered care. I take pride in my ability to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions with evidence-based knowledge and appropriate psychotherapy tools. I have experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law and medical), LGBTQ clients, and survivors of trauma. I am licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts and can see patients remotely, but I appreciate the chance to meet in-person in my comfortable office in Montclair, NJ.
(551) 272-7103 View (551) 272-7103

See more therapy options for 07607

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07607

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07607 who prioritize treating:

100% Eating Disorders
100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% AmeriHealth
100% Wellpoint | Amerigroup
100% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 07607 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07607?

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.