Psychiatrists in 07662

Photo of Alena Debrosse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, APN, RN
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
Photo of William Chu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
William Chu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
13 Endorsed
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Are you experiencing any of the following: Struggle with focus, concentration, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health concerns; feel like your mental health has plateaued; feel confused by all the contradictory health information out there? My philosophy is to identify the root cause of your issues and address it with holistic, nutrition-based treatments that solve the problem from the bottom up—not simply bombard you with medications so I can check you off my list.
Are you experiencing any of the following: Struggle with focus, concentration, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health concerns; feel like your mental health has plateaued; feel confused by all the contradictory health information out there? My philosophy is to identify the root cause of your issues and address it with holistic, nutrition-based treatments that solve the problem from the bottom up—not simply bombard you with medications so I can check you off my list.
(908) 544-5775 View (908) 544-5775
Photo of Alena Antohina, Psychiatrist, MD
Alena Antohina
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
Dr. Alena Antohina is a Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2011. She received her MD degree from Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Republic of Moldova and later completed a Psychiatry Residency at The Albany Medical Center, NY and a Geriatric Psychiatry Fellowship at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. Dr. Antohina's professional services include treatment and consultations for mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and sleep problems.
(973) 240-9379 View (973) 240-9379
Photo of Dr. Gaurav Chaudhari, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Dr. Gaurav Chaudhari
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662
Gaurav Chaudhari, MD, helps adults in New Jersey take meaningful steps toward emotional well-being and lasting change through thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care. As a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, he offers medication management to individuals ages 18 to 64, supporting patients through challenges related to mood, focus, sleep, and overall mental wellness. With a calm and compassionate approach, Dr. Chaudhari partners with patients to develop treatment plans tailored to their unique goals, values, and life experiences. Dr.
Gaurav Chaudhari, MD, helps adults in New Jersey take meaningful steps toward emotional well-being and lasting change through thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care. As a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, he offers medication management to individuals ages 18 to 64, supporting patients through challenges related to mood, focus, sleep, and overall mental wellness. With a calm and compassionate approach, Dr. Chaudhari partners with patients to develop treatment plans tailored to their unique goals, values, and life experiences. Dr.
(973) 798-9386 View (973) 798-9386
Photo of Irene Mazur, Psychiatrist, MD
Irene Mazur
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Irene Mazur graduated with honors from the Ternopol Medical School in Ternopol, Ukraine, in 1992. After her move to the US, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program and a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in in UMDNJ, Piscataway, NJ. Her area of expertise include: autism, aggression, developmental delay, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. In 2023, Dr. Mazur had received well-deserved recognition and was acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Psychiatry.
Dr. Irene Mazur graduated with honors from the Ternopol Medical School in Ternopol, Ukraine, in 1992. After her move to the US, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program and a Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship in in UMDNJ, Piscataway, NJ. Her area of expertise include: autism, aggression, developmental delay, ADHD, depression, and PTSD. In 2023, Dr. Mazur had received well-deserved recognition and was acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Psychiatry.
(201) 488-5161 View (201) 488-5161
Photo of Vera Solovieva, Psychiatrist, MD
Vera Solovieva
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Solovieva treats adults and the geriatric population performing psychiatric evaluations and psychiatric medication management.
Dr. Solovieva treats adults and the geriatric population performing psychiatric evaluations and psychiatric medication management.
(551) 243-7521 View (551) 243-7521
Photo of Azra Mansoor, Psychiatrist, MD
Azra Mansoor
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a seasoned psychiatrist, I work with my clients to understand the underlying cause of their mental health concerns, and work with them to establish a medication regiment that addressed their issues while maintaining a balance of a productive and joyful life.
As a seasoned psychiatrist, I work with my clients to understand the underlying cause of their mental health concerns, and work with them to establish a medication regiment that addressed their issues while maintaining a balance of a productive and joyful life.
(201) 802-8047 View (201) 802-8047
Photo of Vadim Oyvin, Psychiatrist, MD
Vadim Oyvin
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Vadim Oyvin is a trained psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience as a physician. Dr. Oyvin has completed his medical training in the former Soviet Union, and has worked both in Moscow, Russia and Kiev, Ukraine.
Dr. Vadim Oyvin is a trained psychiatrist with over 40 years of experience as a physician. Dr. Oyvin has completed his medical training in the former Soviet Union, and has worked both in Moscow, Russia and Kiev, Ukraine.
(551) 210-8389 View (551) 210-8389
Photo of Marina Tourkova, Psychiatrist, MD
Marina Tourkova
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Tourkova is well-known and respected by the community and has been chosen by her patients for the Patient’s Choice Physician Award 5 years in a row. In 2003, Dr. Tourkova founded the Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry, and has since been leading and managing it as a Medical Director. She serves as the Medical Director, treats adults and geriatric population performing Psychiatric Evaluation and Psychiatric Medication Management, as well as provides clinical consult to the Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry's providers
Dr. Tourkova is well-known and respected by the community and has been chosen by her patients for the Patient’s Choice Physician Award 5 years in a row. In 2003, Dr. Tourkova founded the Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry, and has since been leading and managing it as a Medical Director. She serves as the Medical Director, treats adults and geriatric population performing Psychiatric Evaluation and Psychiatric Medication Management, as well as provides clinical consult to the Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry's providers
(551) 239-9651 View (551) 239-9651
Photo of Lucille Green, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
Lucille Green
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Lucille Green has an extensive and diverse nursing experience encompassing various health care delivery settings. She has gained comprehensive training and experience as an Advanced Practice Nurse in Mental Health environments, with responsibilities in prescribing medications and treatments, under joint protocol for psychiatric populations under a practice agreement with a collaborating physician
Ms. Lucille Green has an extensive and diverse nursing experience encompassing various health care delivery settings. She has gained comprehensive training and experience as an Advanced Practice Nurse in Mental Health environments, with responsibilities in prescribing medications and treatments, under joint protocol for psychiatric populations under a practice agreement with a collaborating physician
(551) 377-5358 View (551) 377-5358

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Jean Ying-Chang
Psychiatrist, MD
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. For Example, I to specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
I am extremely happy to be a part of the Specialized Therapy Associates team. STA has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Paramus, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. For Example, I to specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry.
(551) 299-0558 View (551) 299-0558
Photo of Oluwole Oderinde, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBChB, MSN, PMHNP
Oluwole Oderinde
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBChB, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Vauxhall, NJ 07088
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a background as a general medical practitioner in my home country Nigeria, this has prepared me to be able to look at mental illnes with a comprehensive approach knowing fully well that physical illness can be a trigger for mental illness. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, combining evidence-based medication management with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications to support overall well-being. My goal is to provide compassionate and individualized care that helps patients achieve lasting mental health improvements.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a background as a general medical practitioner in my home country Nigeria, this has prepared me to be able to look at mental illnes with a comprehensive approach knowing fully well that physical illness can be a trigger for mental illness. I take a holistic approach to mental healthcare, combining evidence-based medication management with an emphasis on lifestyle modifications to support overall well-being. My goal is to provide compassionate and individualized care that helps patients achieve lasting mental health improvements.
(908) 895-5028 View (908) 895-5028
Photo of Eronmwon Balogun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Eronmwon Balogun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Serves Area
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
As an ideal psychiatric mental health client, I present with moderate depression and generalized anxiety disorder. My primary needs include medication management for symptom relief and psychoeducation on coping strategies. My goals are to attain emotional stability, enhance daily functioning, and reduce distress. I seek an understanding of my conditions, effective pharmacological interventions, and therapeutic support to develop resilience. Motivated by a desire for improved quality of life, I aim to cultivate a balanced mental state, fostering a sense of control and well-being in navigating life's challenges.
(856) 481-0681 View (856) 481-0681
Photo of Ramandeep Kaur, Psychiatrist, MD
Ramandeep Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Linden, NJ 07036
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
Welcome to my practice. I am a dual board-certified Adult and Child- Adolescent Psychiatrist. I completed my General Psychiatry residency and Fellowship in Child- Adolescent Psychiatry from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, where I was appointed as chief fellow. I have been working as an attending psychiatrist with Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, in the school-based programs, where I provide full range of psychiatric services to youths (5-21) in out of district therapeutic schools. I also work with Robert Wood Johnson- Barnabas Health, covering psychiatric emergency room and consultation services.
(732) 334-3281 View (732) 334-3281
Photo of Akia Blandon - New Beginnings Healthcare , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
New Beginnings Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
Are you seeking a holistic approach to your mental and emotional health? Dr. Akia Blandon is here to help. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Dr. Blandon is an Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to fostering your overall wellness. As the President and CEO of New Beginnings HealthCare, PLLC, Dr. Blandon offers compassionate care that integrates mental health support with lifestyle coaching. Her holistic practice serves individuals across NY, NJ, and PA, focusing on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Join a community that prioritizes your health. Dr. Blandon
Are you seeking a holistic approach to your mental and emotional health? Dr. Akia Blandon is here to help. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare, Dr. Blandon is an Adult Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to fostering your overall wellness. As the President and CEO of New Beginnings HealthCare, PLLC, Dr. Blandon offers compassionate care that integrates mental health support with lifestyle coaching. Her holistic practice serves individuals across NY, NJ, and PA, focusing on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Join a community that prioritizes your health. Dr. Blandon
(272) 233-4490 View (272) 233-4490
Photo of Fehintola Ogunsakin - Joyous Medical Care, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC
Joyous Medical Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MHA, NEA-BC
West New York, NJ 07093
Joyous Medical Care 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.
Joyous Medical Care 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.
(201) 992-8666 View (201) 992-8666
Photo of Yissell Delvalle, Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
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 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 addiction, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, Treatment-Resistant Depression, PTSD, psychosis and women with post-partum depression.
(201) 864-4897 View (201) 864-4897
Photo of Isaac Oke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Isaac Oke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Union, NJ 07083
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the stories and struggles that shape people’s lives. My career has taken me everywhere from the urgent intensity of psychiatric hospitals to the steady rhythms of community clinics and residential treatment centers. No matter where I work, I see every patient as a whole person—someone with unique challenges, hopes, and potential.
I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the stories and struggles that shape people’s lives. My career has taken me everywhere from the urgent intensity of psychiatric hospitals to the steady rhythms of community clinics and residential treatment centers. No matter where I work, I see every patient as a whole person—someone with unique challenges, hopes, and potential.
(908) 916-3552 View (908) 916-3552
Tina Pryor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
My ideal client is struggling with anxiety and/or depression and is seeking services to find balance.
(844) 959-1689 View (844) 959-1689
Photo of Mary Jo Lamb - Mary Jo Lamb APN-C Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse, RNC, MSN, APN, C
Mary Jo Lamb APN-C Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, RNC, MSN, APN, C
Warren, NJ 07059
Psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 30 years experience. I treat ages late adolescent to geriatric ages. Majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications) and individual/ family counseling.I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, post traumatic stress disorder , obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. In private practice for over 25 years and have had a wide range of experience in treating addiction and mental health co occurring issues.
Psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 30 years experience. I treat ages late adolescent to geriatric ages. Majority of my practice is psychopharmacology ( prescribing psychiatric medications) and individual/ family counseling.I treat a variety of mental health disorders such as depression, post traumatic stress disorder , obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. In private practice for over 25 years and have had a wide range of experience in treating addiction and mental health co occurring issues.
(908) 428-4017 View (908) 428-4017

See more therapy options for 07662

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07662

10+

Average cost per session

$145

Psychiatrists in 07662 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
90% Depression
90% ADHD
90% Trauma and PTSD
70% Anger Management

Average years in practice

45 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
90% Medicare

How Psychiatrists in 07662 see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07662?

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.