Psychiatrists in 07653

Tulika Srivastava
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Tulika Srivastava, a compassionate and dedicated child psychiatrist, board-certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry . My practice is a place of understanding and healing where the mental well being of children, adolescents and adults is the top priority. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in shaping a healthier future , I employ evidence based approaches tailored to each young patient’s needs. My comprehensive background in adult psychiatry allows me to extend quality care to adult patients too. I look forward to my patients having a healthier , more balanced future .
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Tulika Srivastava, a compassionate and dedicated child psychiatrist, board-certified in both child and adolescent and adult psychiatry . My practice is a place of understanding and healing where the mental well being of children, adolescents and adults is the top priority. Recognizing the importance of early intervention in shaping a healthier future , I employ evidence based approaches tailored to each young patient’s needs. My comprehensive background in adult psychiatry allows me to extend quality care to adult patients too. I look forward to my patients having a healthier , more balanced future .
(551) 239-8079 View (551) 239-8079
Stephanie Konrad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Dr. Kirt Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Online Only
Are you or someone you love struggling with the weight of mental illness or addiction? I help individuals and families navigate these challenges with clarity, compassion, and evidence‑based care. Whether you’re seeking support for a child, adolescent, or adult, my goal is to restore stability, strengthen emotional wellness, and create a path toward lasting change. With over 14 years of experience across inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatric settings, I bring a deep understanding of how mental health needs evolve across the lifespan.
Are you or someone you love struggling with the weight of mental illness or addiction? I help individuals and families navigate these challenges with clarity, compassion, and evidence‑based care. Whether you’re seeking support for a child, adolescent, or adult, my goal is to restore stability, strengthen emotional wellness, and create a path toward lasting change. With over 14 years of experience across inpatient, outpatient, and emergency psychiatric settings, I bring a deep understanding of how mental health needs evolve across the lifespan.
(914) 687-5309 View (914) 687-5309

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Simon Salawu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Newark, NJ 07103
My passion for science and helping others has guided my journey into mental health care. I began my academic career earning a degree in Applied Chemistry in Nigeria before continuing my education in the United States at New Jersey City University and Fairleigh Dickinson University. This diverse background shapes my thoughtful, evidence-based approach to care. I specialize in psychiatry across the lifespan and am committed to providing safe, effective, and personalized treatment for each individual.
My passion for science and helping others has guided my journey into mental health care. I began my academic career earning a degree in Applied Chemistry in Nigeria before continuing my education in the United States at New Jersey City University and Fairleigh Dickinson University. This diverse background shapes my thoughtful, evidence-based approach to care. I specialize in psychiatry across the lifespan and am committed to providing safe, effective, and personalized treatment for each individual.
(973) 406-4310 View (973) 406-4310
Dr. Lukresia Kawira
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
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 served as a charge nurse. 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), ADD/ADHD, 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 served as a charge nurse. 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), ADD/ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
(732) 641-4709 View (732) 641-4709
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNPBC
Paramus, NJ 07652
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years of nursing experience, providing trauma-informed, holistic mental health care to patients of all ages. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I offer culturally responsive care to diverse communities, with a focus on resilience, wellness, and strengths-building. I hold additional certifications as a Family, Adult-Gerontology, and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, bringing a broad clinical perspective to mental health care. I see clients via secure telehealth across New Jersey, with in-person sessions at our Paramus and Edison offices.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 20 years of nursing experience, providing trauma-informed, holistic mental health care to patients of all ages. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I offer culturally responsive care to diverse communities, with a focus on resilience, wellness, and strengths-building. I hold additional certifications as a Family, Adult-Gerontology, and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, bringing a broad clinical perspective to mental health care. I see clients via secure telehealth across New Jersey, with in-person sessions at our Paramus and Edison offices.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Aquarian Psychiatry & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Serves Area
Aquarian Psychiatry & Wellness is a modern, patient-centered mental health practice dedicated to providing thoughtful, personalized care. We accept most major insurance plans, making high-quality psychiatric treatment more accessible and convenient. Founded by board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners, our practice is built on a commitment to delivering evidence-based care in a supportive and compassionate environment. We work with adults seeking relief from overwhelming symptoms and support in achieving clarity, balance, and improved well-being.
Aquarian Psychiatry & Wellness is a modern, patient-centered mental health practice dedicated to providing thoughtful, personalized care. We accept most major insurance plans, making high-quality psychiatric treatment more accessible and convenient. Founded by board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioners, our practice is built on a commitment to delivering evidence-based care in a supportive and compassionate environment. We work with adults seeking relief from overwhelming symptoms and support in achieving clarity, balance, and improved well-being.
(848) 279-5621 View (848) 279-5621
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).
View
Stella Okah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APN
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
Are you having difficulty with Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Insomnia? Or have you had a history of Mental Health Issues that you want to discuss? Do you have Addiction to Opiates, Narcotics, Alcohol? Just Relapsed and Need Help Now? We are here to help. Our Mental Health and Addiction Center is Open 5 days a week with multiple providers to help you. We Proudly Accept Medicaid of New Jersey and also Commercial Insurance with out of network benefits.
(201) 972-5906 View (201) 972-5906
Morgan Edward Bardall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, BSN, BA, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Belleville, NJ 07109
With experience in an array of psychiatric conditions, my goal at my all virtual practice is to help you to function at your best, with the idea that medications, if indicated, should start low and go slow. I may have a doctorate but all of my patients call me by my first name Morgan. My goal is to get to know you so that we can partner together to find what works best for you, safely and effectively. When working with me, I hope to create a connection that helps to help you to function at your best and find your new normal.
With experience in an array of psychiatric conditions, my goal at my all virtual practice is to help you to function at your best, with the idea that medications, if indicated, should start low and go slow. I may have a doctorate but all of my patients call me by my first name Morgan. My goal is to get to know you so that we can partner together to find what works best for you, safely and effectively. When working with me, I hope to create a connection that helps to help you to function at your best and find your new normal.
(732) 385-3819 View (732) 385-3819
Brain Ways
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Paterson, NJ 07503
You may be holding it all together on the outside—but inside, you’re exhausted, anxious, or quietly unraveling. Maybe you’re overwhelmed by life, weighed down by expectations, or unsure where to turn. If you’re here, you’re already taking a brave first step. I work with people who are ready to feel heard, understood, and supported. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, healing, and a life that feels more like yours again.
You may be holding it all together on the outside—but inside, you’re exhausted, anxious, or quietly unraveling. Maybe you’re overwhelmed by life, weighed down by expectations, or unsure where to turn. If you’re here, you’re already taking a brave first step. I work with people who are ready to feel heard, understood, and supported. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, healing, and a life that feels more like yours again.
(862) 860-6046 View (862) 860-6046
Alena Debrosse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, APN, RN
1 Endorsed
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Alena Debrosse has over 20 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and continues to help clients heal and grow optimally. Her focus is primarily on medication management but her approach is to get to know the whole person, your struggles, your supports and the environment in which you live. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting. She loves what she does and this will show in her interactions with you. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting.
Alena Debrosse has over 20 years of experience as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and continues to help clients heal and grow optimally. Her focus is primarily on medication management but her approach is to get to know the whole person, your struggles, your supports and the environment in which you live. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting. She loves what she does and this will show in her interactions with you. She is nonjudgmental, warm and accepting.
(201) 537-4831 View (201) 537-4831
Sharonda Moore-Forehand
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Paterson, NJ 07505
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and board‑certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP‑BC). I specialize in holistic, evidence‑based care for adults facing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma‑related concerns, co‑occurring substance use, and the emotional impact of medical and life stressors. I also provide medication management for psychiatric conditions. In my current role as an Advanced Practice Nurse, I conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, provide ongoing follow‑up care, and prescribe and manage psychotropic medications using evidence‑based research.
I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and board‑certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP‑BC). I specialize in holistic, evidence‑based care for adults facing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, trauma‑related concerns, co‑occurring substance use, and the emotional impact of medical and life stressors. I also provide medication management for psychiatric conditions. In my current role as an Advanced Practice Nurse, I conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, provide ongoing follow‑up care, and prescribe and manage psychotropic medications using evidence‑based research.
(609) 710-4454 View (609) 710-4454
Christian Wellness Center of NJ LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Emad Mounir is a Licensed Psychiatrist and ABPN board-certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, boasting 24+ years of experience. Dr. Mounir offers empathetic, reflective evaluation, and attentive listening during treatment. He suggests pharmacological and psycho-therapeutic interventions to alleviate suffering and elevate functioning, aligning with individual aspirations.
Dr. Emad Mounir is a Licensed Psychiatrist and ABPN board-certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, boasting 24+ years of experience. Dr. Mounir offers empathetic, reflective evaluation, and attentive listening during treatment. He suggests pharmacological and psycho-therapeutic interventions to alleviate suffering and elevate functioning, aligning with individual aspirations.
(732) 978-9633 View (732) 978-9633
Skyview Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Dr. Ivy Nnorom and her team welcome you to Skyview health where you will discover a peaceful space for Spravato treatment, medication management, one on one talk therapy, aromatherapy and other mentally- soothing therapies. Nestled in Maplewood, our clinic offers compassionate mental health support that aims at promoting healing. We blend expertise with genuine empathy and are dedicated to nurturing your overall well-being.
Dr. Ivy Nnorom and her team welcome you to Skyview health where you will discover a peaceful space for Spravato treatment, medication management, one on one talk therapy, aromatherapy and other mentally- soothing therapies. Nestled in Maplewood, our clinic offers compassionate mental health support that aims at promoting healing. We blend expertise with genuine empathy and are dedicated to nurturing your overall well-being.
(973) 996-2078 View (973) 996-2078
Cynthia Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
Cynthia Fox is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate, evidence based care to children, adolescents, and adults. She partners with patients to create individualized plans focused on mental wellness, resilience, and quality of life. She earned her MSN as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an MSN in Nursing Informatics from Western Governors University.
Cynthia Fox is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing compassionate, evidence based care to children, adolescents, and adults. She partners with patients to create individualized plans focused on mental wellness, resilience, and quality of life. She earned her MSN as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Fairleigh Dickinson University and an MSN in Nursing Informatics from Western Governors University.
(551) 209-1452 View (551) 209-1452
Dianne White
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Dianne White, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working on an inpatient psychiatric unit. Throughout my profession, I have worked as an RN, Family Nurse Practitioner, and currently as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have learned the importance of caring for a whole person’s well-being. Each of my patients is treated with specialized care, giving them the unique attention necessary for successful treatment. I take pride in providing my clients with the assistance they need to turn their outlook on life around for the better. To give hope to the ones who’ve felt hopeless.
Hello, my name is Dianne White, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working on an inpatient psychiatric unit. Throughout my profession, I have worked as an RN, Family Nurse Practitioner, and currently as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have learned the importance of caring for a whole person’s well-being. Each of my patients is treated with specialized care, giving them the unique attention necessary for successful treatment. I take pride in providing my clients with the assistance they need to turn their outlook on life around for the better. To give hope to the ones who’ve felt hopeless.
(609) 312-5329 View (609) 312-5329
Raynald Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience managing and treating both acute and chronic mental health issues across the lifespan. I have worked in multiple health settings, both acute and chronic, which has helped with building a foundation to both diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health illnesses. You are not defined by your diagnos(es), let us work together to find what makes you your best self.
Hi, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with years of experience managing and treating both acute and chronic mental health issues across the lifespan. I have worked in multiple health settings, both acute and chronic, which has helped with building a foundation to both diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health illnesses. You are not defined by your diagnos(es), let us work together to find what makes you your best self.
(929) 590-9720 View (929) 590-9720
Louis Sanfilippo, MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Livingston, NJ 07039
I am a Yale-trained adult psychiatrist (board certified) and psychotherapist with over two decades of experience. My expertise is treating anxiety and depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, and performance/sports related problems. I provide psychotherapy and, when needed, medication treatment, approaching each patient as a whole person and tailoring treatment to meet their unique, personal needs. I consider my style non-judgmental and interactive, and collaborate with my patients to help them toward symptom relief, as well as greater wellness and fulfillment in life.
I am a Yale-trained adult psychiatrist (board certified) and psychotherapist with over two decades of experience. My expertise is treating anxiety and depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, and performance/sports related problems. I provide psychotherapy and, when needed, medication treatment, approaching each patient as a whole person and tailoring treatment to meet their unique, personal needs. I consider my style non-judgmental and interactive, and collaborate with my patients to help them toward symptom relief, as well as greater wellness and fulfillment in life.
(973) 629-8954 View (973) 629-8954
Priscilla Ndulue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, or medications that no longer seem to be working? I provide personalized psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals who want to feel more stable, focused, and in control of their mental health. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and focused on finding a treatment plan that fits your symptoms, goals, and everyday life.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, or medications that no longer seem to be working? I provide personalized psychiatric evaluations and medication management for individuals who want to feel more stable, focused, and in control of their mental health. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and focused on finding a treatment plan that fits your symptoms, goals, and everyday life.
(609) 380-7203 View (609) 380-7203

See more therapy options for 07653

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07653

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07653 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% ADHD
100% Anxiety
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Suicidal Ideation
67% Eating Disorders

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 07653 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07653?

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.