Psychiatrists in 07719

Photo of Jessica Augustyniak, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jessica Augustyniak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, mood disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. My practice focuses on comprehensive medication management complemented by supportive psychotherapy when appropriate.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, mood disorders, insomnia, and ADHD. My practice focuses on comprehensive medication management complemented by supportive psychotherapy when appropriate.
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Photo of Guerline Dume-Lotin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Guerline Dume-Lotin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Wall Township, NJ 07719
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
Photo of Dr. Charles F. Hamill, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Charles F. Hamill
Psychiatrist, DO
Wall Township, NJ 07719
Founded in Monmouth County, NJ, Hamill Psychiatry is our commitment to providing personalized, compassionate psychiatric care to individuals seeking mental health wellness. As a native of Sea Girt NJ, Dr. Hamill is deeply grateful to serve the community where he was born and raised. Our practice represents the fusion of our strong connection to this community and his life’s purpose - helping others navigate their mental health challenges.
Founded in Monmouth County, NJ, Hamill Psychiatry is our commitment to providing personalized, compassionate psychiatric care to individuals seeking mental health wellness. As a native of Sea Girt NJ, Dr. Hamill is deeply grateful to serve the community where he was born and raised. Our practice represents the fusion of our strong connection to this community and his life’s purpose - helping others navigate their mental health challenges.
(732) 233-9249 View (732) 233-9249
Photo of Natalia Sedlacek, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Natalia Sedlacek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Wall Township, NJ 07719
With over 15 years of experience in the medical field, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals through the complexities of health. As a PMHNP, I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health concerns, always with an empathetic, holistic approach that recognizes the mind-body connection. I understand the courage it takes to seek help, and I am honored to walk alongside each individual on their journey toward healing. Every treatment plan is individualized, ensuring that it aligns with your values, goals, and needs. The best way to schedule an appointment is to call our office directly.
With over 15 years of experience in the medical field, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals through the complexities of health. As a PMHNP, I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health concerns, always with an empathetic, holistic approach that recognizes the mind-body connection. I understand the courage it takes to seek help, and I am honored to walk alongside each individual on their journey toward healing. Every treatment plan is individualized, ensuring that it aligns with your values, goals, and needs. The best way to schedule an appointment is to call our office directly.
(848) 847-6091 View (848) 847-6091
Photo of Constance Nana Kusi - New Jersey Psychiatric Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, CNL, APN
New Jersey Psychiatric Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MBA, CNL, APN
Wall Township, NJ 07719
Does your mental health need immediate attention or further stabilization? Constance Nana Kusi is a seasoned and dedicated healthcare professional who stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of psychiatric/mental health. She is dedicated to the care of individuals with mental health disorders to help them recover and improve their quality of life. With a rich tapestry of experiences, she has woven a career marked by compassion, innovation, and a relentless commitment to enhancing mental health care. She also plays a key role as a Psychiatric Consult Liaison with a prestigious healthcare system in New Jersey.
Does your mental health need immediate attention or further stabilization? Constance Nana Kusi is a seasoned and dedicated healthcare professional who stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of psychiatric/mental health. She is dedicated to the care of individuals with mental health disorders to help them recover and improve their quality of life. With a rich tapestry of experiences, she has woven a career marked by compassion, innovation, and a relentless commitment to enhancing mental health care. She also plays a key role as a Psychiatric Consult Liaison with a prestigious healthcare system in New Jersey.
(732) 659-1413 View (732) 659-1413
Photo of Staci Barilari, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Staci Barilari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
5 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides warm, supportive care for anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and women’s mental health. I also work closely with individuals navigating fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. My own experience with infertility and IVF helps me bring a compassionate, realistic approach to treatment. My goal is to help you feel safe, understood, and guided. I accept most major insurance plans and verify benefits ahead of your visit.
I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who provides warm, supportive care for anxiety, OCD, depression, ADHD, and women’s mental health. I also work closely with individuals navigating fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum. My own experience with infertility and IVF helps me bring a compassionate, realistic approach to treatment. My goal is to help you feel safe, understood, and guided. I accept most major insurance plans and verify benefits ahead of your visit.
(848) 272-7153 View (848) 272-7153
Photo of Dr. Leopold Bolona, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Leopold Bolona
Psychiatrist, MD
4 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
Dr. Leopold Bolona is a compassionate psychiatrist in private practice in Westfield and Wall Township NJ seeing adults only at this time. The practice has 24 providers including Nurse Practitioners and Therapists offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment for a variety of issues such as: Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, addiction and more.The practice offers both in person and telehealth. All offices offer Genetic testing and Neuropsych testing. Both offices also offers both TMS and Spravato treatments.
Dr. Leopold Bolona is a compassionate psychiatrist in private practice in Westfield and Wall Township NJ seeing adults only at this time. The practice has 24 providers including Nurse Practitioners and Therapists offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment for a variety of issues such as: Depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, addiction and more.The practice offers both in person and telehealth. All offices offer Genetic testing and Neuropsych testing. Both offices also offers both TMS and Spravato treatments.
(732) 440-3179 View (732) 440-3179
Photo of JoAnne Piaggio, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, B-C
JoAnne Piaggio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, B-C
2 Endorsed
Wall, NJ 07719
I am excited to utilize my experience to assist you, my client, in achieving and maintaining your optimum mental health. Together, we can identify and overcome obstacles that are holding you back from living your best life.
I am excited to utilize my experience to assist you, my client, in achieving and maintaining your optimum mental health. Together, we can identify and overcome obstacles that are holding you back from living your best life.
(848) 222-8793 View (848) 222-8793
Photo of Francine Dygulski - Lotus Mental Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP-B
Lotus Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC, PMHNP-B
2 Endorsed
Wall Township, NJ 07719
I am a Dual Certified Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry and Adult Medicine. I have worked in many settings, psychiatric hospital, hospital ICU, Inpatient detox, outpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment. I also specialize in Medical & Psychiatric patient education.
I am a Dual Certified Practitioner, board certified in both Psychiatry and Adult Medicine. I have worked in many settings, psychiatric hospital, hospital ICU, Inpatient detox, outpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment. I also specialize in Medical & Psychiatric patient education.
(732) 631-3575 View (732) 631-3575
Photo of David Wolff, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
David Wolff
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Serves Area
"Listen to me." "Try to understand me." "Talk to me and work with me to explore solutions." I am board certified in General Psychiatry and I am a member of the Clinical TMS Society. I have been in practice for 25 years. My practice specialty is depression and anxiety. To implement change, I strongly believe in the importance of understanding your goals in entering treatment. Understanding your current and past life experiences is crucial to working with you to make sound recommendations.
"Listen to me." "Try to understand me." "Talk to me and work with me to explore solutions." I am board certified in General Psychiatry and I am a member of the Clinical TMS Society. I have been in practice for 25 years. My practice specialty is depression and anxiety. To implement change, I strongly believe in the importance of understanding your goals in entering treatment. Understanding your current and past life experiences is crucial to working with you to make sound recommendations.
(732) 285-1190 View (732) 285-1190
Photo of Jacqueline M Iannacone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , CARN
Jacqueline M Iannacone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP , CARN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Behavioral Health services provided by a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that is dedicated to providing quality care and treating the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. With experience in evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and substance use disorders, including opiate and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders.
Behavioral Health services provided by a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner that is dedicated to providing quality care and treating the whole person, including the body, mind and spirit. With experience in evaluation and medication management across the lifespan, I treat a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and substance use disorders, including opiate and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and mood disorders.
(609) 557-3636 View (609) 557-3636
Photo of Dr. Ruben Rupendra Singh - Ruben Singh MD LLC, Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Ruben Singh MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first 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 the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first 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 the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Dr. Andrew Manoski, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Andrew Manoski
Psychiatrist, DO
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am currently looking for clients interested in working on their mental well-being through a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this work of introspection, we hope to better manage relationship conflicts, recurring issues with anxiety or moods, and self-sabotaging behaviors. By better understanding our past ways of interacting and experiencing the world, we can more more consciously work toward goals for the future.
I am currently looking for clients interested in working on their mental well-being through a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this work of introspection, we hope to better manage relationship conflicts, recurring issues with anxiety or moods, and self-sabotaging behaviors. By better understanding our past ways of interacting and experiencing the world, we can more more consciously work toward goals for the future.
(609) 928-7115 View (609) 928-7115
Photo of Martins Akhibi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
Martins Akhibi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Stuck, or Alone in Your Struggles? Life can feel heavy when you're battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to keep it all together, feeling misunderstood, or struggling to find someone who truly listens. Perhaps your thoughts feel overwhelming, your emotions unpredictable, or daily life harder than it should be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Are You Feeling Overwhelmed, Stuck, or Alone in Your Struggles? Life can feel heavy when you're battling anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to keep it all together, feeling misunderstood, or struggling to find someone who truly listens. Perhaps your thoughts feel overwhelming, your emotions unpredictable, or daily life harder than it should be. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone.
(732) 592-5740 View (732) 592-5740
Photo of Shannon Stoll - Jersey Shore Behavioral Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Jersey Shore Behavioral Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have over 27 years experience in the field of psychiatry in the following environments: inpatient psychiatry, crisis (PESS), and outpatient settings (adolescent and adult). I earned my BSN in 1996 from Trenton State College (College of New Jersey) and MSN from Monmouth university in 2018. I believe in a collaborative approach with my clients, and place a strong emphasis on education regarding medication management. My prescriptive practice is conservative and I encourage my clients to be active participants in their healthcare management.
I have over 27 years experience in the field of psychiatry in the following environments: inpatient psychiatry, crisis (PESS), and outpatient settings (adolescent and adult). I earned my BSN in 1996 from Trenton State College (College of New Jersey) and MSN from Monmouth university in 2018. I believe in a collaborative approach with my clients, and place a strong emphasis on education regarding medication management. My prescriptive practice is conservative and I encourage my clients to be active participants in their healthcare management.
(732) 335-7973 View (732) 335-7973
Photo of Christian Meriscar - Dr. Christian M -All Inclusive, LGBTQ+, Med Mgmt, Psychiatrist
Dr. Christian M -All Inclusive, LGBTQ+, Med Mgmt
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My practice helps motivated clients handle life’s challenges by strategizing with them to gain the tools to lead successful and healthy lives. I aim to identify your concerns, work through these obstacles together, and achieve solutions to support the best version of yourself. We will work together to help you understand how the biological (prescribed medications, where appropriate), psychological (psychotherapy, person-centered, and empowering approach), and lifestyles impact your well-being.
My practice helps motivated clients handle life’s challenges by strategizing with them to gain the tools to lead successful and healthy lives. I aim to identify your concerns, work through these obstacles together, and achieve solutions to support the best version of yourself. We will work together to help you understand how the biological (prescribed medications, where appropriate), psychological (psychotherapy, person-centered, and empowering approach), and lifestyles impact your well-being.
(732) 561-5844 View (732) 561-5844
Photo of Jonathan Lang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jonathan Lang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of the people I work with feel stuck in a cycle of stress, self-doubt, or emotional exhaustion. They’re high-functioning on the outside but often overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected on the inside. They want to understand themselves better, find steadier moods, and rebuild motivation and confidence. Together, we focus on creating balance—through practical coping skills, insight-oriented conversation, and when appropriate, thoughtful medication management. The goal is to help you feel grounded, clear-minded, and capable of living the life you’ve been working so hard to hold together.
Many of the people I work with feel stuck in a cycle of stress, self-doubt, or emotional exhaustion. They’re high-functioning on the outside but often overwhelmed, anxious, or disconnected on the inside. They want to understand themselves better, find steadier moods, and rebuild motivation and confidence. Together, we focus on creating balance—through practical coping skills, insight-oriented conversation, and when appropriate, thoughtful medication management. The goal is to help you feel grounded, clear-minded, and capable of living the life you’ve been working so hard to hold together.
(201) 903-4539 View (201) 903-4539
Photo of Christala Cherry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Christala Cherry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My focus is a spiritual, integrative, holistic approach to assist you in your journey to optimal mental health and wellness. My clients enjoy a partnership being an active participant in their well being, and are willing to participate in talk therapy if medication is required. My clients prefer take fewer prescription medications, and to taper down dosing of their medications as much as possible. They are open to alternative therapies because they want to feel better and be the best version of themselves.
My focus is a spiritual, integrative, holistic approach to assist you in your journey to optimal mental health and wellness. My clients enjoy a partnership being an active participant in their well being, and are willing to participate in talk therapy if medication is required. My clients prefer take fewer prescription medications, and to taper down dosing of their medications as much as possible. They are open to alternative therapies because they want to feel better and be the best version of themselves.
(848) 204-1251 View (848) 204-1251
Photo of Marlena Ann Boeni, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Marlena Ann Boeni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of experience working in healthcare. I have a broad knowledge base of medication management, diagnosis, and therapy for adolescents through adulthood. I am here to assist you in feeling your best!
Hello, I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 30 years of experience working in healthcare. I have a broad knowledge base of medication management, diagnosis, and therapy for adolescents through adulthood. I am here to assist you in feeling your best!
(848) 337-5138 View (848) 337-5138

See more therapy options for 07719

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07719

20+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in 07719 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
95% Anxiety
90% Medication Management
85% ADHD
80% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% Trauma and PTSD
65% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

7 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
94% Aetna
94% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07719 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

56% Female
44% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07719?

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.