Psychiatrists in 07702

Photo of Valerie Magrino - Shrewsbury Wellness Center, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Shrewsbury Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
5 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
I truly enjoy connecting with my patients and understanding their lives. I am grateful every day for this fulfilling career that allows me to help my patients feel better. Work has become a source of pleasure for me; as it lifts my spirits when others become happier, more content with their lives, and more balanced. I have had the privilege of starting my private practice in the tiny and friendly town of Shrewsbury, NJ, a borough of Monmouth County, in 2017. My practice has grown to over 400 patients, and I diagnose and treat many conditions there including: ADHD, GAD, MDD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, Mood disorders, Insomnia.
I truly enjoy connecting with my patients and understanding their lives. I am grateful every day for this fulfilling career that allows me to help my patients feel better. Work has become a source of pleasure for me; as it lifts my spirits when others become happier, more content with their lives, and more balanced. I have had the privilege of starting my private practice in the tiny and friendly town of Shrewsbury, NJ, a borough of Monmouth County, in 2017. My practice has grown to over 400 patients, and I diagnose and treat many conditions there including: ADHD, GAD, MDD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, Mood disorders, Insomnia.
(732) 444-8802 View (732) 444-8802
Lane g Rose
Psychiatrist, MD
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
I attended Medical School and Adult Psychiatry Residency training at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. I went on to do a subspecialty fellowship program in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at New York University Medical Center. I am board certified in both Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I look forward to talking with you about whether the possibility of medication may be helpful as part of your entire treatment program . Areas of particular interest include Depressive and Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Social anxiety and Selective Mutism, Difficult life transitions (ie divorce, death of a loved one, infertility, postpartum issues etc)
I attended Medical School and Adult Psychiatry Residency training at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. I went on to do a subspecialty fellowship program in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at New York University Medical Center. I am board certified in both Adult as well as Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I look forward to talking with you about whether the possibility of medication may be helpful as part of your entire treatment program . Areas of particular interest include Depressive and Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Social anxiety and Selective Mutism, Difficult life transitions (ie divorce, death of a loved one, infertility, postpartum issues etc)
(732) 943-1554 View (732) 943-1554
Photo of Olga Esterov, Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C, CAQ Psy
Olga Esterov
Physician Assistant, MS, PA-C, CAQ Psy
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
I have been helping adolescents/adults navigate through difficult psychiatric/emotional states for over 10 years. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and initiate/manage medication. I employ an evidenced-based medical and holistic approach to treatment - incorporating lifestyle changes, nutrition, and meditation/breathing/relaxation exercises in addition to treatment with medication.
I have been helping adolescents/adults navigate through difficult psychiatric/emotional states for over 10 years. I conduct psychiatric evaluations and initiate/manage medication. I employ an evidenced-based medical and holistic approach to treatment - incorporating lifestyle changes, nutrition, and meditation/breathing/relaxation exercises in addition to treatment with medication.
(732) 936-7559 View (732) 936-7559
Photo of Staci Barilari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Staci Barilari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
Hi! I'm Staci. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who is dedicated to integrative care, specializing in anxiety, depression, and perinatal mental health. I am committed to fostering holistic well-being and empowering individuals on their mental health journey. My appointments typically include medication management with talk therapy. I strive to create a strong relationship with my clients. Please send me an email to schedule an initial consultation. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
(848) 272-7153 View (848) 272-7153
Photo of Margaret Gorny, Psychiatric Nurse, APN
Margaret Gorny
Psychiatric Nurse, APN
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
I have worked in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have treated adults ranging in age from 18 to 80. I have also done extensive work with couples and families. My clients have had a wide variety of presenting problems from depression, anger management, relationships issues, anxiety, mood disorders, marital problems, phobias and obsessive compulsive behaviors. I see my client as a whole person not as a person with a problem. A person with strengths and weaknesses. Our job together is to find the answers and develop the skills to move forward to an enriching life.
(973) 845-4092 View (973) 845-4092
Photo of Olukayode Akinkunle, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Olukayode Akinkunle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 3+ years of experience in mental health , specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma. Advocate for holistic, patient-centered care. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or life transitions. They seek clarity, emotional balance, and tools to thrive. They want to feel understood and empowered to create meaningful change.
Board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 3+ years of experience in mental health , specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma. Advocate for holistic, patient-centered care. My ideal client struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or life transitions. They seek clarity, emotional balance, and tools to thrive. They want to feel understood and empowered to create meaningful change.
(716) 588-4516 View (716) 588-4516
Photo of Steven Dyckman, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven Dyckman
Psychiatrist, MD
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
(732) 238-7711 View (732) 238-7711
Photo of Steven Dyckman, Psychiatrist, MD
Steven Dyckman
Psychiatrist, MD
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
(732) 238-7711 View (732) 238-7711
Photo of Laurie Greisch, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
Laurie Greisch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Healing Minds is an outpatient psychiatry practice. We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Telepsychiatry is also available. If you are interested in an appointment, please visit our website and complete the online form at healingmindsnj.com/contact/
Healing Minds is an outpatient psychiatry practice. We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and brief supportive therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Telepsychiatry is also available. If you are interested in an appointment, please visit our website and complete the online form at healingmindsnj.com/contact/
(732) 605-4597 View (732) 605-4597
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
Welcome to The Cohen Center....Are you overly stressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD symptoms, insomnia or depression? These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Willing to take the next step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy, can enhance your life. You will be monitored closely so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often this leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment.
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Mary Jane Maser - Shore Psychological Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APN
Shore Psychological Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APN
Serves Area
I am a Psychologist and an Advanced Practice Nurse in Private Practice for over 30 years. I prescribe psychiatric medications that treat anxiety, depression and a wide range of other psychiatric symptoms. I address acute & chronic problems such as social anxiety, codependency, Attention Deficit Disorder, relationship and marital issues including divorce with individual counseling and therapy in conjunction with medication. I also encourage organic problem-solving including exercise, spirituality, creativity, volunteering, being social with friends and family, etc. Finding balance in life is difficult, I can help you find it.
I am a Psychologist and an Advanced Practice Nurse in Private Practice for over 30 years. I prescribe psychiatric medications that treat anxiety, depression and a wide range of other psychiatric symptoms. I address acute & chronic problems such as social anxiety, codependency, Attention Deficit Disorder, relationship and marital issues including divorce with individual counseling and therapy in conjunction with medication. I also encourage organic problem-solving including exercise, spirituality, creativity, volunteering, being social with friends and family, etc. Finding balance in life is difficult, I can help you find it.
(848) 361-3480 View (848) 361-3480
Photo of Kenneth Lichtman, Psychiatrist, MD
Kenneth Lichtman
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Looking forward to meeting and treating you! I enjoy treating adolescents and adults of all ages. I am particularly interested and involved in treating Mood Disorders, as they are among the most devastating psychological illnesses. Anxiety disorders are also an incredibly common presenting problem, and I have much experience in this area. A team approach for all psychological illnesses is often most desirable. In all cases, a full recovery is my constant goal.
Looking forward to meeting and treating you! I enjoy treating adolescents and adults of all ages. I am particularly interested and involved in treating Mood Disorders, as they are among the most devastating psychological illnesses. Anxiety disorders are also an incredibly common presenting problem, and I have much experience in this area. A team approach for all psychological illnesses is often most desirable. In all cases, a full recovery is my constant goal.
(732) 549-2220 View (732) 549-2220
Photo of Graydon Gregory Goss, Psychiatrist, MD
Graydon Gregory Goss
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Dr. Graydon Goss was raised in Tinton Falls, NJ. He attended Christian Brothers Academy, Brown University and Dartmouth Medical School receiving his Doctorate in Medicine in 1977. After training in Psychiatry and Child / Adolescent Psychiatry at Los Angeles County General Hospital and U.S.C. Medical Center, he served as Chief of the LA County Adolescent Psychiatric Crisis Unit. In 1998 he returned to NJ, where he utilizes skills developed over 38 years of practice addressing the complex problems which face today's teens and their families. Unlike many psychiatrists he provides talk and behavioral psychotherapies as well as psychopharmacology.
Dr. Graydon Goss was raised in Tinton Falls, NJ. He attended Christian Brothers Academy, Brown University and Dartmouth Medical School receiving his Doctorate in Medicine in 1977. After training in Psychiatry and Child / Adolescent Psychiatry at Los Angeles County General Hospital and U.S.C. Medical Center, he served as Chief of the LA County Adolescent Psychiatric Crisis Unit. In 1998 he returned to NJ, where he utilizes skills developed over 38 years of practice addressing the complex problems which face today's teens and their families. Unlike many psychiatrists he provides talk and behavioral psychotherapies as well as psychopharmacology.
(732) 530-1181 View (732) 530-1181

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Happiness Ilechukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Happiness Ilechukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Linden, NJ 07036
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.
(908) 257-8246 View (908) 257-8246
Photo of Karen Yeboah-Norment, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Karen Yeboah-Norment
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Freehold, NJ 07728
My ideal patient is one with multiple psychiatric co-morbidities looking for a treatment to improve their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your 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 their mood, energy, anxiety, and focus. Do you feel sad daily, stop socializing with friends & family members, perform the bare minimum work tasks, call out of work frequently, and fail college classes due to not completing school assignments & attendance? Have you been using cannabis to cope with your 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.
(848) 345-2550 View (848) 345-2550
Photo of Joan Wamahiu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joan Wamahiu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
2 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing care to diverse populations across the lifespan. I take a holistic approach to care, where I prioritize the integration of medication management, psychotherapy, and complementary therapeutic strategies. I believe in treating the whole person and tailoring care to each individual’s unique mental health needs. I understand that seeking help for mental health issues can be a challenging and deeply personal journey. My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued and empowered.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing care to diverse populations across the lifespan. I take a holistic approach to care, where I prioritize the integration of medication management, psychotherapy, and complementary therapeutic strategies. I believe in treating the whole person and tailoring care to each individual’s unique mental health needs. I understand that seeking help for mental health issues can be a challenging and deeply personal journey. My goal is to provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued and empowered.
(848) 279-8778 View (848) 279-8778
Photo of Kristina Way, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP-C
Kristina Way
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP-C
Online Only
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, looking to improve the lives of children, adults, and families through medication management and compassionate counseling and therapy. I specialize in helping clients with Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADHD, and Insomnia.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, looking to improve the lives of children, adults, and families through medication management and compassionate counseling and therapy. I specialize in helping clients with Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, ADHD, and Insomnia.
(908) 970-8816 x100 View (908) 970-8816 x100
Photo of Barbara Darko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, A-GNP
Barbara Darko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, A-GNP
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My ideal client may be struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek understanding, support, and treatment options that empower them to regain control of their lives. Their goal is emotional stability, healing, and a better quality of life. They want to build coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and develop healthier habits to move forward with confidence and resilience.
My ideal client may be struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, or mood disorders. They seek understanding, support, and treatment options that empower them to regain control of their lives. Their goal is emotional stability, healing, and a better quality of life. They want to build coping strategies, improve emotional well-being, and develop healthier habits to move forward with confidence and resilience.
(862) 829-3211 View (862) 829-3211
Photo of Jennifer O'Scanlon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Jennifer O'Scanlon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
3 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
You have probably been going to therapy for some time now. You've made progress but there are still days when you feel anxious or depressed. This may be holding you back from meeting your goals and it's where I can help. I offer medication management at the lowest doses possible to help reduce your symptoms allowing you to fully engage in your therapy. With symptoms reduced you will be able to fully utilize all the skills you’ve learned, allowing you to heal and better handle life's stressors.
You have probably been going to therapy for some time now. You've made progress but there are still days when you feel anxious or depressed. This may be holding you back from meeting your goals and it's where I can help. I offer medication management at the lowest doses possible to help reduce your symptoms allowing you to fully engage in your therapy. With symptoms reduced you will be able to fully utilize all the skills you’ve learned, allowing you to heal and better handle life's stressors.
(732) 795-2202 View (732) 795-2202
Esther Ola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Parlin, NJ 08859
Have a strong commitment to helping people with mental health issues by using a thorough, patient-centered, and holistic approach as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). In addition to handling addictions, coping mechanisms, and a spectrum of emotional and behavioral problems, my experience includes a wide range of mental diseases, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD
Have a strong commitment to helping people with mental health issues by using a thorough, patient-centered, and holistic approach as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). In addition to handling addictions, coping mechanisms, and a spectrum of emotional and behavioral problems, my experience includes a wide range of mental diseases, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD
(848) 285-6172 View (848) 285-6172

See more therapy options for 07702

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07702

10+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 07702 who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
85% Medication Management
77% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
77% Bipolar Disorder
69% Relationship Issues
69% ADHD

Average years in practice

21 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Medicare
50% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 07702 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

60% Female
40% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07702?

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.