Psychiatrists in 07675

Photo of Nauman Ramay - Westwood Psychiatry Associates , MD, Psychiatrist
Westwood Psychiatry Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westwood, NJ 07675
westwoodpsychnj.com - Check us out ! Our board-certified psychiatrists are committed to helping you on your journey to mental wellness. We recognize that mental illness is not a choice, but choosing to get help is. We offer years of experience in diagnosing/treating various mental health conditions such as adhd, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Our family run practice is located in Westwood, NJ and proudly serves the Bergen County and northern suburbs. We offer both in person and virtual visits for those who have a busy schedule.
westwoodpsychnj.com - Check us out ! Our board-certified psychiatrists are committed to helping you on your journey to mental wellness. We recognize that mental illness is not a choice, but choosing to get help is. We offer years of experience in diagnosing/treating various mental health conditions such as adhd, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Our family run practice is located in Westwood, NJ and proudly serves the Bergen County and northern suburbs. We offer both in person and virtual visits for those who have a busy schedule.
(201) 730-6963 View (201) 730-6963
Photo of Jamie Solomon, APN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jamie Solomon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that specializes in working with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and attention disorders. I integrate modern and traditional practices to help clients identify their unique talents and direct their purpose. I'm passionate about people and their unique stories. I believe in the power of non-judgmental listening, partnership, and collaboration in treatment planning. I aim to empower my patients to openly discuss their concerns with me. My patients find me down to earth and easy to talk to.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner that specializes in working with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and attention disorders. I integrate modern and traditional practices to help clients identify their unique talents and direct their purpose. I'm passionate about people and their unique stories. I believe in the power of non-judgmental listening, partnership, and collaboration in treatment planning. I aim to empower my patients to openly discuss their concerns with me. My patients find me down to earth and easy to talk to.
(973) 363-2393 View (973) 363-2393
Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
My ideal client is someone who has been battling severe anxiety and depression. This client is seeking ways to manage their anxiety and wants to set realistic goals during the therapeutic process. This client also feels like their depression makes it hard to find joy in life. Together, we can set goals that help the client regain a sense of control in their life and reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. My ideal client is most importantly motivated to improve their quality of life by trusting the therapeutic journey.
(551) 345-5574 View (551) 345-5574
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(201) 500-3625 View (201) 500-3625
Photo of Gabriel Essilfie, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Gabriel Essilfie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
My ideal client would be a client who comes in ready to work on their treatment together through psychotherapy and, at times, medication management. I strive to allow the client to feel heard, spend time with the client to understand their symptoms, and provide good, competent care.
(551) 210-8937 View (551) 210-8937
Photo of Monowara Begum, MD, Psychiatrist
Monowara Begum
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to my private practice. Do not suffer in silence, there is hope and help. I have extensive experience of over forty years treating anxiety, depression, panic disorder, O.C.D., mood disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, among others. I provide comprehensive mental health evaluation, diagnosis,and treatment for the adult, geriatric, and adolescent population. I have special expertise in psychopharmacology and the treatment of individuals who did not respond to various treatments in the past. I believe in compassionate care, I do not give up until my patients feel they have reached their maximum level of wellbeing.
Welcome to my private practice. Do not suffer in silence, there is hope and help. I have extensive experience of over forty years treating anxiety, depression, panic disorder, O.C.D., mood disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, among others. I provide comprehensive mental health evaluation, diagnosis,and treatment for the adult, geriatric, and adolescent population. I have special expertise in psychopharmacology and the treatment of individuals who did not respond to various treatments in the past. I believe in compassionate care, I do not give up until my patients feel they have reached their maximum level of wellbeing.
(845) 764-4183 View (845) 764-4183
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve one’s mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stopped socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and are failing college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with one’s current mood symptoms? Have you failed numerous medications due to side effects & effectiveness? I will help you develop a treatment plan to help you meet your mental health goals and feel content & yourself again.
(201) 371-3892 View (201) 371-3892
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(201) 685-4044 View (201) 685-4044
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
(201) 690-1049 View (201) 690-1049
Photo of Amanda Guarnere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
(201) 654-7420 View (201) 654-7420
Photo of Ashley Kwafo, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ashley Kwafo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
My ideal client should come to the appointment as they are. This client may be nervous, apprehensive, or even scared about a possible mental health diagnosis, which is okay. The client may have issues or illnesses regarding depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, personality, mood, psychosis, or substance abuse. The ideal client desires to be heard and cared for in a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental manner. They should also be educated on their treatment options, which may include medication management, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
(551) 373-4277 View (551) 373-4277

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Shirley Rajan, MD, Psychiatrist
Shirley Rajan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe a comprehensive assessment, a working alliance with clients and families, and collaboration with all treatment providers should be the foundation of any treatment. I am a dual board certified adult and child-adolescent psychiatrist with extensive experience in treating patients with complex emotional and behavioral challenges. I am well adept at addressing issues ranging from depression, to ADHD, to behavioral issues, to struggles with addiction. I believe in balancing multiple psychotherapeutic modalities with psychopharmacology.
I believe a comprehensive assessment, a working alliance with clients and families, and collaboration with all treatment providers should be the foundation of any treatment. I am a dual board certified adult and child-adolescent psychiatrist with extensive experience in treating patients with complex emotional and behavioral challenges. I am well adept at addressing issues ranging from depression, to ADHD, to behavioral issues, to struggles with addiction. I believe in balancing multiple psychotherapeutic modalities with psychopharmacology.
(732) 607-4332 View (732) 607-4332
Photo of Joseph Gagnon - Psychiatric Edge, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Edge
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07310
Waitlist for new clients
Joseph Gagnon, CRNP, owner of Psychiatric Edge, believes that mental health care should be accessible, convenient, and compassionate. Joe's practice is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric services to individuals across NJ, PA, and NY. We have the capability of seeing clients in person or virtually. We strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and achieve their mental health goals. Joe truly takes the time to listen to his clients through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy sessions. Schedule today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
Joseph Gagnon, CRNP, owner of Psychiatric Edge, believes that mental health care should be accessible, convenient, and compassionate. Joe's practice is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric services to individuals across NJ, PA, and NY. We have the capability of seeing clients in person or virtually. We strive to empower our clients to overcome challenges and achieve their mental health goals. Joe truly takes the time to listen to his clients through comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy sessions. Schedule today and take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow!
(908) 650-1373 View (908) 650-1373
Photo of Allen Masry - Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox, MD, Psychiatrist
Victory Bay Recovery Center - Detox
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
Victory Bay offers a variety of client-centered programs treating Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health. We help our clients successfully detox from drugs and alcohol in a comfortable inpatient or outpatient setting. Accommodations will be made for 24 hour staffing and clients will be cared for by licensed staff including Psychiatrists, APN, RN, etc. Detox is an individualized process, and we have found that a holistic approach is ideal when trying to successfully treat substance use disorder.
(201) 890-7232 View (201) 890-7232
Photo of Niru Shamsun Nahar, MD, Psychiatrist
Niru Shamsun Nahar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07011
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in both General Psychiatry and Addiction. My training was accomplished at prestigious institutions such as Harlem Hospital/Columbia University and NYSPI/Columbia University. With over 19 years in the field, I've dedicated my practice to helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and more.
I'm a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in both General Psychiatry and Addiction. My training was accomplished at prestigious institutions such as Harlem Hospital/Columbia University and NYSPI/Columbia University. With over 19 years in the field, I've dedicated my practice to helping individuals navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and more.
(732) 889-5881 View (732) 889-5881
Photo of Leo Onyekwere Onuoha, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leo Onyekwere Onuoha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Nurse Practitioner at Restorative Care Services, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a focus on your overall well-being, I offer a range of psychiatric healthcare services designed to help you thrive. My expertise lies in continuous care for those with chronic psychiatric conditions, especially those recently discharged from acute care settings. My goal is to ensure a smooth transition, providing the necessary follow-up monitoring to prevent relapse and promote sustained recovery. I also support individuals with substance use issues.
As a Nurse Practitioner at Restorative Care Services, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a focus on your overall well-being, I offer a range of psychiatric healthcare services designed to help you thrive. My expertise lies in continuous care for those with chronic psychiatric conditions, especially those recently discharged from acute care settings. My goal is to ensure a smooth transition, providing the necessary follow-up monitoring to prevent relapse and promote sustained recovery. I also support individuals with substance use issues.
(856) 386-1637 View (856) 386-1637
Photo of Dr. Ashley Anderson, DNP, MSN, AGPC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Ashley Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, AGPC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Ashley Anderson and I provide quality care for your total self. I am committed and dedicated to serving you and take pride in a client centered approach. From challenges with depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, and several other conditions, I can help you to become the best version of yourself. I value your opinion and concern for your treatment. I am always willing to educate and listen to your concerns and needs. I treat all ages across the life span from children to older adults. I am passionate about serving and look forward to helping you become the best version of yourself!
My name is Ashley Anderson and I provide quality care for your total self. I am committed and dedicated to serving you and take pride in a client centered approach. From challenges with depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, and several other conditions, I can help you to become the best version of yourself. I value your opinion and concern for your treatment. I am always willing to educate and listen to your concerns and needs. I treat all ages across the life span from children to older adults. I am passionate about serving and look forward to helping you become the best version of yourself!
(856) 502-1085 View (856) 502-1085
Photo of Dr. Jeliah Akombe - Serenity Healthcare Associates (Dr. J Akombe), DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serenity Healthcare Associates (Dr. J Akombe)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Jeliah Akombe is a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. Dr. Akombe completed her undergraduate studies in Nursing at New Jersey State University. Dr. Akombe received her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and a doctorate degree from Samford University. She later earned her post doctorate degree in psychiatric mental health from the University of Massachusetts. Dr. Akombe is licensed in 14 states including, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC , New York and Pennsylvania among others.
Dr. Jeliah Akombe is a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health Nurse Practitioner and Family nurse practitioner. Dr. Akombe completed her undergraduate studies in Nursing at New Jersey State University. Dr. Akombe received her master’s degree in nursing from Walden University and a doctorate degree from Samford University. She later earned her post doctorate degree in psychiatric mental health from the University of Massachusetts. Dr. Akombe is licensed in 14 states including, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC , New York and Pennsylvania among others.
(848) 276-6952 View (848) 276-6952
Photo of Catherine Itzkowitz, MSN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Itzkowitz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Catherine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression Family issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) / Trauma, Seasonal. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Catherine and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New Jersey. I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression Family issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) / Trauma, Seasonal. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
(862) 278-9511 View (862) 278-9511
Photo of Dr. Payal K Shah, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Payal K Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
I am a board certified child/adult psychiatrist with 20yrs of experience. My goal is to provide compassionate quality care and I use a comprehensive treatment approach. I use principles of Psychodynamic psychotherapy and CBT and integrate it with medication management. I have the experience of treating different kinds of disorders in children/teens/adults.
I am a board certified child/adult psychiatrist with 20yrs of experience. My goal is to provide compassionate quality care and I use a comprehensive treatment approach. I use principles of Psychodynamic psychotherapy and CBT and integrate it with medication management. I have the experience of treating different kinds of disorders in children/teens/adults.
(973) 791-7490 View (973) 791-7490

See more therapy options for 07675

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07675

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 07675 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Trauma and PTSD
91% Bipolar Disorder
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
82% Medication Management
73% Stress

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
90% Aetna
90% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07675 see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07675?

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.