Psychiatrists in 07632

Photo of Catherine M Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Catherine M Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Licensed in New Jersey and New York. Like a tree, our roots are our foundation. They can lead us in many directions and keep us anchored in times of difficulty. Over the course of life, we are faced with storms that may affect our roots, which can then affect our lives tremendously. We desire to give individuals a chance to firmly implant their roots where they were meant to be, leading to healing and lasting change. We want to remind you that you are already en route on your path to wellness. Whether you are looking for healing, restoration, or self-empowerment, we are happy to be part of this journey with you.
Licensed in New Jersey and New York. Like a tree, our roots are our foundation. They can lead us in many directions and keep us anchored in times of difficulty. Over the course of life, we are faced with storms that may affect our roots, which can then affect our lives tremendously. We desire to give individuals a chance to firmly implant their roots where they were meant to be, leading to healing and lasting change. We want to remind you that you are already en route on your path to wellness. Whether you are looking for healing, restoration, or self-empowerment, we are happy to be part of this journey with you.
(201) 582-4585 View (201) 582-4585
Photo of Douglas Saphier - Saphier Behavioral Health, Psychiatrist, MD
Saphier Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
In my private practice I treat patients of all ages and at various stages of life. I have particular expertise in diagnosing and treating numerous neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, behaviors related to autism spectrum disorder as well as mood and anxiety disorders. I provide both medication management as well as supportive psychotherapy.
(917) 746-1421 View (917) 746-1421
Photo of Shani Stein, Psychiatrist, MD
Shani Stein
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I am a licensed adult Psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD and Perinatal disorders. I offer both medication management and therapy in my practice. I am dedicated to helping my patients get back on their feet and helping them live a more happy and productive life.
I am a licensed adult Psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD and Perinatal disorders. I offer both medication management and therapy in my practice. I am dedicated to helping my patients get back on their feet and helping them live a more happy and productive life.
(201) 992-4247 View (201) 992-4247
Photo of Veena R Muthusamy, Psychiatrist, MD
Veena R Muthusamy
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I am a double board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience. The decision to seek mental health treatment for yourself or your child can be an anxiety provoking yet brave step. My philosophy is to provide patient centered care while taking into consideration the complex factors that contribute to mental health difficulties. I believe that understanding the nuances of family dynamics, cultural background, and traumatic experiences are vital to personalized holistic treatment.
I am a double board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult psychiatrist with over 10 years of experience. The decision to seek mental health treatment for yourself or your child can be an anxiety provoking yet brave step. My philosophy is to provide patient centered care while taking into consideration the complex factors that contribute to mental health difficulties. I believe that understanding the nuances of family dynamics, cultural background, and traumatic experiences are vital to personalized holistic treatment.
(551) 367-1393 View (551) 367-1393

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Elina Petrosyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elina Petrosyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07043
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
(973) 406-4988 View (973) 406-4988
Photo of Sajid Baig, Psychiatrist, MD
Sajid Baig
Psychiatrist, MD
Hoboken, NJ 07030
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy for the general adult population. After finishing medical school, I completed my Psychiatric residency in 2016 at Howard University in Washington, DC where I served as chief resident in my senior year. Since then, I have worked in a variety of different settings including inpatient, outpatient, community center and forensics.
(201) 817-6230 View (201) 817-6230
Photo of Patricia Gazzola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-C
Patricia Gazzola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-C
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over a decade of experience diagnosing mental health issues, prescribing psychotropic medications and counseling patients and their families. Specific areas of clinical interest include: child/teen/young adult mental health and wellness, the neurobiology and treatment of pediatric eating disorders and pharmacological approaches to the treatment of ADHD, including cases complicated by other mental health issues.
(973) 587-2438 View (973) 587-2438
Photo of Jessica Gorgo, Psychiatrist, DO
Jessica Gorgo
Psychiatrist, DO
Serves Area
Dr. Jessica Gorgo is a board-certified, licensed New York City & North Jersey psychiatrist in the dynamic group private practice, London Terrace Psychiatry, in Manhattan. She has over 10 years of experience in both medication management & talk therapy treating all adult psychiatric issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep problems, eating disorders, work stress, life transitions & relationship issues.
Dr. Jessica Gorgo is a board-certified, licensed New York City & North Jersey psychiatrist in the dynamic group private practice, London Terrace Psychiatry, in Manhattan. She has over 10 years of experience in both medication management & talk therapy treating all adult psychiatric issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep problems, eating disorders, work stress, life transitions & relationship issues.
(201) 809-3436 View (201) 809-3436
Photo of Alan Brown, Psychiatrist, MD
Alan Brown
Psychiatrist, MD
Englewood, NJ 07631
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. I am a psychopharmacologist with expertise in the use of medications that restore your healthy mood and functioning. In addition, I have treated patients with a variety of psychotherapeutic (talk therapy) techniques include helping patients develop insight into the causes of how they feel and cognitive behavioral therapy which helps patients deal with emotional distress by evaluating negative patterns of thinking. I offer therapy in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. I offer daytime and evening hours.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience treating patients with anxiety, depression, and other stress-related disorders. I am a psychopharmacologist with expertise in the use of medications that restore your healthy mood and functioning. In addition, I have treated patients with a variety of psychotherapeutic (talk therapy) techniques include helping patients develop insight into the causes of how they feel and cognitive behavioral therapy which helps patients deal with emotional distress by evaluating negative patterns of thinking. I offer therapy in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. I offer daytime and evening hours.
(201) 244-4561 View (201) 244-4561
Photo of Tony Issac - Anxiety and depression treatment - Psychiatrist NJ, Psychiatrist, MD
Anxiety and depression treatment - Psychiatrist NJ
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Dr. Issac is an experienced general and addiction psychiatrist in Ridgewood, NJ, with eight years of clinical expertise. He specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Issac takes a holistic, evidence-based approach by evaluating medical, nutritional, and hormonal factors that may impact mental health. Combining medication management with psychotherapy, he creates personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery and well-being.
Dr. Issac is an experienced general and addiction psychiatrist in Ridgewood, NJ, with eight years of clinical expertise. He specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Dr. Issac takes a holistic, evidence-based approach by evaluating medical, nutritional, and hormonal factors that may impact mental health. Combining medication management with psychotherapy, he creates personalized treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery and well-being.
(201) 482-3451 View (201) 482-3451
Photo of Ketan Hirapara, Psychiatrist, MD
Ketan Hirapara
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Ketan Hirapara is a psychiatrist and fellowship trained interventional pain physician, licensed in NJ & PA. Dr. Hirapara specializes in treating comorbid mental health conditions associated with complex pain problems. Additionally, he also specializes in treating depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and mood disorders.
Dr. Ketan Hirapara is a psychiatrist and fellowship trained interventional pain physician, licensed in NJ & PA. Dr. Hirapara specializes in treating comorbid mental health conditions associated with complex pain problems. Additionally, he also specializes in treating depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and mood disorders.
(732) 906-9600 View (732) 906-9600
Photo of Lisa Dipietropolo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
Lisa Dipietropolo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. With an extensive background in inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a comprehensive understanding of psychiatric conditions and a holistic approach to treatment. My focus is helping clients to achieve their wellness goals through personalized care plans. I am dedicated to fostering a therapeutic partnership that supports lasting recovery and overall well-being.
Hello! I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals across the lifespan. With an extensive background in inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a comprehensive understanding of psychiatric conditions and a holistic approach to treatment. My focus is helping clients to achieve their wellness goals through personalized care plans. I am dedicated to fostering a therapeutic partnership that supports lasting recovery and overall well-being.
(856) 215-4650 View (856) 215-4650
Photo of Amanda Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Amanda Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
3 Endorsed
Oradell, NJ 07649
I see clients for med evals & management, 2nd opinions and robust patient edu. My clients are wide-ranging: some are brand new to treatment; others have chronic mental illness, whether stable or during an acute episode; I accept pt's looking for a f/u provider after a psych hospitalization; I accept new-onset mental illness, whether due to substance use, an acute stressor or another factors. Some pts who anticipate difficult upcoming life-changes, like a pregnancy, job change, in-laws moving in, etc., may choose to see me prophylactically — often, some of these patients find quick relief just knowing there’s a plan in place.
I see clients for med evals & management, 2nd opinions and robust patient edu. My clients are wide-ranging: some are brand new to treatment; others have chronic mental illness, whether stable or during an acute episode; I accept pt's looking for a f/u provider after a psych hospitalization; I accept new-onset mental illness, whether due to substance use, an acute stressor or another factors. Some pts who anticipate difficult upcoming life-changes, like a pregnancy, job change, in-laws moving in, etc., may choose to see me prophylactically — often, some of these patients find quick relief just knowing there’s a plan in place.
(732) 338-0957 View (732) 338-0957
Photo of Julia Morrison, Psychiatrist, MD
Julia Morrison
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Asking for help is difficult but it is the first step towards feeling better. You may have noticed that issues arise in different scenarios, despite your best efforts. Psychological problems and pain can hamper work, romantic relationships, and many other aspects of life. Therapy can help you understand the roots of these issues. I am a psychoanalytically-trained psychotherapist and psychiatrist who helps people work through their longstanding issues to develop lasting change. I am board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
Asking for help is difficult but it is the first step towards feeling better. You may have noticed that issues arise in different scenarios, despite your best efforts. Psychological problems and pain can hamper work, romantic relationships, and many other aspects of life. Therapy can help you understand the roots of these issues. I am a psychoanalytically-trained psychotherapist and psychiatrist who helps people work through their longstanding issues to develop lasting change. I am board-certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
(646) 867-3653 View (646) 867-3653
Photo of Omar Canosa, Psychiatrist, MD
Omar Canosa
Psychiatrist, MD
Morristown, NJ 07960
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, and do my best work with adolescent clients, and their families. I am intensively trained in DBT, and its principles inform my practice, even when the full model is not applied. I am also trained in medical acupuncture, and have practiced martial arts and meditative systems for over two decades. By virtue of this unique training, I am dedicated to an integrative approach which both addresses symptoms and problems, while also seeking to maximize the capacity for attaining and sustaining wellbeing. I am equally fluent in English and Spanish.
I am board-certified in both adult and child/adolescent psychiatry, and do my best work with adolescent clients, and their families. I am intensively trained in DBT, and its principles inform my practice, even when the full model is not applied. I am also trained in medical acupuncture, and have practiced martial arts and meditative systems for over two decades. By virtue of this unique training, I am dedicated to an integrative approach which both addresses symptoms and problems, while also seeking to maximize the capacity for attaining and sustaining wellbeing. I am equally fluent in English and Spanish.
(973) 552-2631 View (973) 552-2631
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 Samiris Sostre, Psychiatrist, MD
Samiris Sostre
Psychiatrist, MD
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
Dr. Sam Sostre is a Board Certified Psychiatrist that has been practicing psychiatry since 1993. She received her undergraduate degree at New York University with a bachelors in Biology and Literature with honors. She obtained her medical degree from the SUNY School of Medicine at Buffalo, and she received her internship and residency training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine-Montefiore in New York City, and also completed her fellowship in administration and psychotherapy at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York.
Dr. Sam Sostre is a Board Certified Psychiatrist that has been practicing psychiatry since 1993. She received her undergraduate degree at New York University with a bachelors in Biology and Literature with honors. She obtained her medical degree from the SUNY School of Medicine at Buffalo, and she received her internship and residency training at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine-Montefiore in New York City, and also completed her fellowship in administration and psychotherapy at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York.
(201) 771-3962 View (201) 771-3962
Photo of Donna Gunther, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Donna Gunther
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. One of the very important things I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a client and their provider is paramount. It is the solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals. I will provide the time you need to listen to your story, evaluate your situation, and then devise options for your treatment including medication if needed. I will collaborate with you in making treatment decisions every step of the way.
Hello, my name is Donna and I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. One of the very important things I have learned through my years in practice is that the relationship and connection formed between a client and their provider is paramount. It is the solid foundation from which someone can truly move forward with their mental health goals. I will provide the time you need to listen to your story, evaluate your situation, and then devise options for your treatment including medication if needed. I will collaborate with you in making treatment decisions every step of the way.
(908) 263-1085 View (908) 263-1085
Photo of Dr. Lukresia B Kawira, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, APN
Dr. Lukresia B Kawira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, APN
Iselin, NJ 08830
Dr. Kawira is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience. She has served in various mental health settings, including Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital, where she held the charge nurse role. Her clinical experience also includes work with NJ Psychotherapy Counseling and the Mental Health Association of NJ as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is highly skilled in the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and bipolar disorder.
Dr. Kawira is a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over five years of experience. She has served in various mental health settings, including Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital, where she held the charge nurse role. Her clinical experience also includes work with NJ Psychotherapy Counseling and the Mental Health Association of NJ as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is highly skilled in the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of psychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and bipolar disorder.
(732) 860-2465 View (732) 860-2465
Photo of Dr. Intisar Ibrahim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Dr. Intisar Ibrahim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
1 Endorsed
Maywood, NJ 07607
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or life transitions, often feeling stuck or unable to move forward. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, uncover the root causes of their pain, and develop lasting emotional resilience. Their goal is healing, emotional growth, and regaining control, so they can live a fulfilling life free from past struggles.
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or life transitions, often feeling stuck or unable to move forward. They need a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, uncover the root causes of their pain, and develop lasting emotional resilience. Their goal is healing, emotional growth, and regaining control, so they can live a fulfilling life free from past struggles.
(201) 379-6209 View (201) 379-6209

See more therapy options for 07632

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07632

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07632 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
75% Relationship Issues
75% ADHD
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% AmeriHealth
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07632 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07632?

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.