Psychiatrists in 07712

Photo of Joan D Palermo - Complete Integrative Healing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APN-C
Complete Integrative Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, APN-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
My job is to work with my clients and support them in their journey toward achieving positive mental health. i work with the whole person and look at their past and present experiences and how they have shaped their "today." We examine their needs, goals and aspirations for the future. It is extremely possible to find balance, health, stability and happiness in life but it will take hard work through trust, examination, transparency, therapy and time. "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Neil Donald Walsh. I truly believe when we are challenged and made to feel uncomfortable via self journey healing begins naturally.
My job is to work with my clients and support them in their journey toward achieving positive mental health. i work with the whole person and look at their past and present experiences and how they have shaped their "today." We examine their needs, goals and aspirations for the future. It is extremely possible to find balance, health, stability and happiness in life but it will take hard work through trust, examination, transparency, therapy and time. "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Neil Donald Walsh. I truly believe when we are challenged and made to feel uncomfortable via self journey healing begins naturally.
(732) 466-7405 View (732) 466-7405
Photo of Dr. Rosemary Mensah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Dr. Rosemary Mensah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
I am accepting new clients. As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment dedicated to your mental well-being. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. With a solid educational background and clinical experience, my primary focus is on the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and various mental health challenges. I believe in building a solid therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and empathy. I aim to create a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment where we can establish treatment goals.
(848) 280-7941 View (848) 280-7941
Photo of Moshe Frances, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Moshe Frances
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Ocean, NJ 07712
My approach to treating clients emphasizes a compassionate-focused and individualized approach which infuses medication management and supportive therapy. I therefore created VipPsychiatry, a concierge private practice that tailors treatment to the client and allows for flexible scheduling. I commend my clients for taking the first step by calling the office and admitting that help is needed. Exploring emotions and behaviors in an honest way can feel frighting but be very rewarding. When clients are ready to get the help they seek, I provide the support and techniques needed to help them overcome the issues they face.
My approach to treating clients emphasizes a compassionate-focused and individualized approach which infuses medication management and supportive therapy. I therefore created VipPsychiatry, a concierge private practice that tailors treatment to the client and allows for flexible scheduling. I commend my clients for taking the first step by calling the office and admitting that help is needed. Exploring emotions and behaviors in an honest way can feel frighting but be very rewarding. When clients are ready to get the help they seek, I provide the support and techniques needed to help them overcome the issues they face.
(732) 334-7432 View (732) 334-7432
Photo of Molly McElwee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Molly McElwee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in treating adults and geriatrics with a full range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, dementia, psychosis, and Alzheimer's. The geriatric population presents unique health needs such as chronic diseases, sensory problems, cognitive loss, memory impairment, and balance issues. My goal is to help treat symptoms that disrupt daily living and provide support and safety to patients and their families. Although my focus is on geriatrics, I am happy to provide care for all adults.
I specialize in treating adults and geriatrics with a full range of diagnoses including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, dementia, psychosis, and Alzheimer's. The geriatric population presents unique health needs such as chronic diseases, sensory problems, cognitive loss, memory impairment, and balance issues. My goal is to help treat symptoms that disrupt daily living and provide support and safety to patients and their families. Although my focus is on geriatrics, I am happy to provide care for all adults.
(732) 631-3635 View (732) 631-3635
Photo of Alexis Holmes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Alexis Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-NP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
(908) 829-9652 View (908) 829-9652
Photo of John R De Oca, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
John R De Oca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
I aspire to help those that are struggling navigating the complexity of their relationships or for those that feel relationships are challenging and difficult. Whether it is navigating the modern dating world, dealing with a long-term partner, recovering from a friendship breakup, feeling lonely with your current friends, or not getting a long with a boss or colleague, relationships are at the essence of our every day lives. So it is my aim to help you connect better all around.
(908) 747-1471 View (908) 747-1471
Photo of Abir Marcus, Psychiatrist, MD
Abir Marcus
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
Dr. Marcus offers individualized approach in her treatments. She uses state of art treatments recommendations for the presenting problem while tailoring it to your personality and life style. Dr. Marcus is specialized in working with mood disorders such as Depression and Bipolar Disorders spectrum, Psychotic and Anxiety Disorders. She is also certified in addiction treatments including Detoxification, working on abstinence or harm reduction through the use of medications and therapy. Dr. Marcus is certified to prescribe Suboxone, Sublocade and Vivitrol.
(732) 656-8701 View (732) 656-8701
Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tony Issac
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
(201) 371-4044 View (201) 371-4044
Photo of Dr. Ruben Rupendra Singh - Ruben Singh MD LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Ruben Singh MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
I offer a very empathic, compassionate, and individualized evaluation and treatment of a diverse population of every persuasion without any biases or prejudices and treat everyone with respect and dignity, no matter of their background or past history, and expect openness to reveal their innermost feelings for growth to happen to reach their highest potential. If you have treatment-resistant or complex problems in need of fine-tuning your medication regimen I will be able to provide the most up-to-date treatment modalities. To begin it's very easy all you have to do is be yourself and the rest therapist will handle.
(732) 517-7599 View (732) 517-7599
Photo of Peter Litwin, Psychiatrist, MD
Peter Litwin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Dr. Peter Litwin is an Adult Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 1995. He completed medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, after which he did his adult psychiatric residency at Albert Einstein. Dr. Litwin offers all his clients support, hope, and education about their clinical issues. He also connects with them on a personal level, and truly appreciates their commitment to treatment. Dr. Litwin is accountable and reliable. His medication management skills have been honed over 30 years of clinical practice.
Dr. Peter Litwin is an Adult Psychiatrist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 1995. He completed medical school at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, after which he did his adult psychiatric residency at Albert Einstein. Dr. Litwin offers all his clients support, hope, and education about their clinical issues. He also connects with them on a personal level, and truly appreciates their commitment to treatment. Dr. Litwin is accountable and reliable. His medication management skills have been honed over 30 years of clinical practice.
(848) 266-5326 View (848) 266-5326
Photo of Guerline Dume-Lotin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Guerline Dume-Lotin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I treat every individual uniquely. I take the time to learn about every client, to diagnose and to treat accordingly. I feel that sharing the plan of care with my clients and make them an essential key player in the success of the treatment. My goal is to assist my clients to reach their goals and live their life to their optimal capacity as they desire.
I treat every individual uniquely. I take the time to learn about every client, to diagnose and to treat accordingly. I feel that sharing the plan of care with my clients and make them an essential key player in the success of the treatment. My goal is to assist my clients to reach their goals and live their life to their optimal capacity as they desire.
(848) 301-1483 View (848) 301-1483
Graceful Beginnings LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Geralda Vilus, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with over six years of experience in mental health. My journey in healthcare began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science from Rutgers University, followed by a Master’s degree in Science, and a Post-Master’s certification in advanced practice nursing. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners as a Family Nurse Practitioner and by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
My name is Geralda Vilus, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) with over six years of experience in mental health. My journey in healthcare began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science from Rutgers University, followed by a Master’s degree in Science, and a Post-Master’s certification in advanced practice nursing. I am certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners as a Family Nurse Practitioner and by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(908) 808-5327 View (908) 808-5327
NJ Behavioral Health - A LifeStance Health Affilia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(848) 371-0212 View (848) 371-0212
Photo of Jennifer O'Scanlon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Jennifer O'Scanlon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Photo of Miriam Tetelbom - Miriam Tetelbom MD LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Miriam Tetelbom MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
During consultations, I focus on being supportive and understanding while at the same time being a very thorough professional. I have over thirty years of experience in various levels of care, assisting and guiding clients to adjust to new life situations. Taking the necessary time to listen to you helps me make the best evaluation and together we come up with a treatment plan. Before establishing my practice in the United States, I have also had a wide range of experience in Brazil, where for fifteen years, I worked as a clinical psychiatrist and taught medical students and psychiatry residents.I lecture in conferences as well.
During consultations, I focus on being supportive and understanding while at the same time being a very thorough professional. I have over thirty years of experience in various levels of care, assisting and guiding clients to adjust to new life situations. Taking the necessary time to listen to you helps me make the best evaluation and together we come up with a treatment plan. Before establishing my practice in the United States, I have also had a wide range of experience in Brazil, where for fifteen years, I worked as a clinical psychiatrist and taught medical students and psychiatry residents.I lecture in conferences as well.
(732) 605-5505 View (732) 605-5505

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Ann Marie Linden - Linden Psychiatric Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Linden Psychiatric Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fords, NJ 08863
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"- Lao Tzu......... Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, sad or confused. I believe mental health issues have biological, psychological and social roots. My practice provides medication management to address symptoms in addition to person-centered therapy to help identify and resolve negative perceptions and dysfunctional behavior patterns.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step"- Lao Tzu......... Sometimes we feel stuck, overwhelmed, sad or confused. I believe mental health issues have biological, psychological and social roots. My practice provides medication management to address symptoms in addition to person-centered therapy to help identify and resolve negative perceptions and dysfunctional behavior patterns.
(732) 372-0070 View (732) 372-0070
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Red Bank, NJ 07701
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 Laura Bastone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Laura Bastone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Laura Bastone is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides personalized mental health services to adults with an approachable style. She believes in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to help you reach your full wellness potential.
Laura Bastone is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides personalized mental health services to adults with an approachable style. She believes in person-centered care with evidence-based treatment approaches. She strives to help you reach your full wellness potential.
(732) 385-3144 View (732) 385-3144
Photo of Dilya Kamilova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-P
Dilya Kamilova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-P
Verified Verified
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides culturally competent care for children, adolescents and adults. As a provider with diverse medical experience, I devoted my career to improving the mental health of my patients.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides culturally competent care for children, adolescents and adults. As a provider with diverse medical experience, I devoted my career to improving the mental health of my patients.
(848) 278-7533 View (848) 278-7533
Photo of Ngozi Nwobi - OCA Behavioral Health Services LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-B, APN
OCA Behavioral Health Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, NJ 08527
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
OCA Behavioral Health Services is dedicated to helping clients with their mental health needs. Through comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, customized individual treatment plan, and medication management, we help our clients to feel and function better in the quickest time possible. We team up with our clients in working through their issues cooperatively and collaboratively.
(732) 782-9615 View (732) 782-9615

See more therapy options for 07712

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07712

10+

Average cost per session

$300

Psychiatrists in 07712 who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
87% Anxiety
80% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
73% ADHD
73% Trauma and PTSD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

92% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
75% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07712 see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

62% Female
38% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07712?

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.