Psychiatrists in 07726

Photo of Dr. Apwinder Kaur, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Apwinder Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Dr. Apwinder Kaur, MD, is a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, providing expert psychiatric care to adults and seniors across New Jersey. She offers a compassionate and individualized approach, helping patients navigate challenges that affect their mental and emotional well-being. Through comprehensive evaluation and thoughtful medication management, Dr. Kaur works with each patient to create an effective, personalized treatment plan that supports their long-term stability and growth. Dr. Kaur is especially passionate about helping individuals manage anxiety disorders, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Dr. Apwinder Kaur, MD, is a dedicated prescriber at LifeStance Health, providing expert psychiatric care to adults and seniors across New Jersey. She offers a compassionate and individualized approach, helping patients navigate challenges that affect their mental and emotional well-being. Through comprehensive evaluation and thoughtful medication management, Dr. Kaur works with each patient to create an effective, personalized treatment plan that supports their long-term stability and growth. Dr. Kaur is especially passionate about helping individuals manage anxiety disorders, depression, and bipolar disorder.
(732) 863-2763 View (732) 863-2763
Photo of Dr. Nidhi Goel, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Nidhi Goel
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Providing in-person, TMS, Spravato ( esketamine) and Tele-psych services. A perfect sync in mind, body and soul is needed for a balanced and healthy life style and that is what I strive to look for and achieve during evaluation, psychiatric assessment and treatment of my patients. I am a dually board certified physician by ABPN and specialize in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I will do a comprehensive assessment and see how the biological, psychological, and social issues in someone's past and present are interacting and contributing in presentation of psychiatric symptoms.
Providing in-person, TMS, Spravato ( esketamine) and Tele-psych services. A perfect sync in mind, body and soul is needed for a balanced and healthy life style and that is what I strive to look for and achieve during evaluation, psychiatric assessment and treatment of my patients. I am a dually board certified physician by ABPN and specialize in Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry. I will do a comprehensive assessment and see how the biological, psychological, and social issues in someone's past and present are interacting and contributing in presentation of psychiatric symptoms.
(732) 517-3965 View (732) 517-3965
Resilience Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Providing mental health services specializing in geriatrics. Addressing the many complex issues that can cause psychological disorders. Assisting in finding ways to cope more effectively with family and every day stressors. Grief counseling for the loss of a loved one. Helping to achieve a well balanced mental state and assisting in finding inner peace and happiness. Solution oriented and will work with the client to identify issues so that a resolution may be obtained.
Providing mental health services specializing in geriatrics. Addressing the many complex issues that can cause psychological disorders. Assisting in finding ways to cope more effectively with family and every day stressors. Grief counseling for the loss of a loved one. Helping to achieve a well balanced mental state and assisting in finding inner peace and happiness. Solution oriented and will work with the client to identify issues so that a resolution may be obtained.
(732) 414-6413 View (732) 414-6413
Photo of Rashidah Garrett-Hall - Wellness & Behavioral Solutions LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Rashidah Garrett-Hall, PMHNP, BC
Wellness & Behavioral Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Rashidah Garrett-Hall, PMHNP, BC
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in addiction, primary care, and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
Mrs. Rashidah Garrett-Hall is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in addiction, primary care, and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but are not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Insomnia, and Bipolar. Rashidah's style of practice can be traditional (prescribing up-to-date psychiatric medications) or alternative medicine (natural treatments including but not limited to vitamins, supplements, lifestyle modification, nutrition, exercise, and stress management). She believes in balance.
(732) 655-2723 View (732) 655-2723
Photo of Lee Ann Colleton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-C , PMHNP, CARN-AP
Lee Ann Colleton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN-C , PMHNP, CARN-AP
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Life can be "overwhelming" leaving you feeling "off-track" at times. My practice is dedicated to empowering clients with strategies to balance areas of anxiety, depression and mood disorders. Having a background in family medicine and family psychiatric mental health, helps to evaluate each client from a psychiatric perspective and incorporate their medical issues. I can provide behavioral and psychiatric services to clients across the lifespan.
Life can be "overwhelming" leaving you feeling "off-track" at times. My practice is dedicated to empowering clients with strategies to balance areas of anxiety, depression and mood disorders. Having a background in family medicine and family psychiatric mental health, helps to evaluate each client from a psychiatric perspective and incorporate their medical issues. I can provide behavioral and psychiatric services to clients across the lifespan.
(848) 400-4302 View (848) 400-4302
Photo of Ashley Acevedo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Ashley Acevedo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Ashley Acevedo, PMHNP, provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care to individuals across New Jersey, offering support through life’s most challenging moments. As a dedicated provider at LifeStance Health, she serves teens, adults, and older adults with a focus on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients feel empowered to take charge of their mental health. Ashley specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, tailoring care plans to each patient’s needs while remaining attuned to how stress, trauma, and neurochemical imbalances affect daily functioning.
Ashley Acevedo, PMHNP, provides compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care to individuals across New Jersey, offering support through life’s most challenging moments. As a dedicated provider at LifeStance Health, she serves teens, adults, and older adults with a focus on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients feel empowered to take charge of their mental health. Ashley specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, tailoring care plans to each patient’s needs while remaining attuned to how stress, trauma, and neurochemical imbalances affect daily functioning.
(855) 417-5683 View (855) 417-5683
Photo of Dr. Erica Strother Dnp - Elysian Integrative Health and Wellness Group, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Elysian Integrative Health and Wellness Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC
3 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Congratulations! Thank you for trusting us to support you on your journey toward enhanced health and well-being. We service NJ, NY, CT and MA to book an appointment visit our website or please call to book an in-person or tele-health appointment. Meet Dr. Erica Strother, DNP, PMHNP/FNP-BC Founder and Clinical Director of Elysian Integrative Health and Wellness Group. With over two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Strother is a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Health and Psychiatry, dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care that promotes both physical and mental wellness.
Congratulations! Thank you for trusting us to support you on your journey toward enhanced health and well-being. We service NJ, NY, CT and MA to book an appointment visit our website or please call to book an in-person or tele-health appointment. Meet Dr. Erica Strother, DNP, PMHNP/FNP-BC Founder and Clinical Director of Elysian Integrative Health and Wellness Group. With over two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Strother is a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Health and Psychiatry, dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care that promotes both physical and mental wellness.
(914) 647-4518 View (914) 647-4518
Photo of Debra Peneiras, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Debra Peneiras
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Are you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck despite trying to manage on your own? When anxiety, depression, or mood symptoms linger, they can drain your energy, disrupt relationships, and make even everyday tasks feel heavy. You don’t have to go through this alone. Together, we can identify what’s contributing to your feelings and develop a thoughtful, personalized treatment plan to help you feel more balanced, focused, and in control.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck despite trying to manage on your own? When anxiety, depression, or mood symptoms linger, they can drain your energy, disrupt relationships, and make even everyday tasks feel heavy. You don’t have to go through this alone. Together, we can identify what’s contributing to your feelings and develop a thoughtful, personalized treatment plan to help you feel more balanced, focused, and in control.
(732) 696-4537 View (732) 696-4537
Photo of Nerlande Charles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Nerlande Charles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Manalapan, NJ 07726
My ideal client would be a someone dealing with a mental health disorder that is looking for comprehensive and patient centered care. They need a provider who is empathetic, listens, experienced and provides patient centered care.
My ideal client would be a someone dealing with a mental health disorder that is looking for comprehensive and patient centered care. They need a provider who is empathetic, listens, experienced and provides patient centered care.
(848) 375-1629 View (848) 375-1629
Photo of Denise Daley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MLP
Denise Daley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MLP
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years, seeing patients with multiple mental health issues including, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Substance Use Disorder.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 20 years, seeing patients with multiple mental health issues including, but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Substance Use Disorder.
(732) 365-0530 View (732) 365-0530
Photo of Blessing Nwele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Blessing Nwele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
My Name is Blessing Nwele and I am a board certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Advanced Practice Nurse. Psychiatric/mental health disorders and behavioral health have been the focal point of my professional life for a decade, culminating in my opening of a mental health private practice. The Positive Touch Behavioral Health Services was born out of almost a decade entirely dedicated to promoting a culture of health and health equity.
(732) 783-5417 View (732) 783-5417
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Manalapan, NJ 07726
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 Elina Petrosyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elina Petrosyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward menta
I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward menta
(973) 510-2722 View (973) 510-2722
Photo of Dr. Neha Naqvi, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Neha Naqvi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently accepting new patients with convenient online booking for in-person visits in Red Bank and virtual appointments across New Jersey. Does your child or teen seem constantly anxious, struggle to focus on schoolwork, or withdraw from friends and family? Maybe homework feels like a daily battle, sleep is restless, or screen time and social media are taking over. Parents often feel helpless watching their child lose motivation, confidence, or joy. Families need more than quick fixes—they need a psychiatrist who listens without rushing, collaborates with parents, and helps kids feel safe, understood, and supported.
Currently accepting new patients with convenient online booking for in-person visits in Red Bank and virtual appointments across New Jersey. Does your child or teen seem constantly anxious, struggle to focus on schoolwork, or withdraw from friends and family? Maybe homework feels like a daily battle, sleep is restless, or screen time and social media are taking over. Parents often feel helpless watching their child lose motivation, confidence, or joy. Families need more than quick fixes—they need a psychiatrist who listens without rushing, collaborates with parents, and helps kids feel safe, understood, and supported.
(732) 392-7421 View (732) 392-7421
Photo of Elina Petrosyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Elina Petrosyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of experience providing high-quality, patient-centered mental health care. I am deeply committed to improving access to care and supporting individuals across the lifespan living with a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I prioritize building trusting relationships and tailoring treatment to each person’s unique needs. My clinical approach blends evidence-based practice with empathy, helping patients feel heard, empowered, and supported on their journey toward mental health wellness.
(973) 406-4988 View (973) 406-4988
Photo of Dr. Deepti Varma, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Deepti Varma
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
I have been in practice for over 10 years and specialize in medication treatments for ADHD, Oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, Autism spectrum disorder and tic disorders. I pursue a working alliance with families, schools, therapists, and pediatricians, including the review of prior assessments, as the basis of the treatment plan. My approach is to start with a thorough diagnosis and formulate a plan that includes medications, psychotherapy, diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, lab work and other lifestyle modifications to provide an individual treatment plan for each of my patients.
(732) 561-5282 View (732) 561-5282
Photo of Dr. Tazeen Azfar, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tazeen Azfar
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently accepting new patients. Dr. Azfar is the Medical Director of Complete Care Psychiatry with over 20 years of experience providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents, and adults ages 5 to 55 years. She specializes in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and evidence-based medication management, with particular expertise in Autism Spectrum Disorder and complex psychopharmacology. Dr. Azfar treats ADHD, anxiety disorders, phobias, major depressive disorder, OCD, bipolar and mood disorders, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, and co-occurring developmental or neurological conditions.
Currently accepting new patients. Dr. Azfar is the Medical Director of Complete Care Psychiatry with over 20 years of experience providing psychiatric care to children, adolescents, and adults ages 5 to 55 years. She specializes in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and evidence-based medication management, with particular expertise in Autism Spectrum Disorder and complex psychopharmacology. Dr. Azfar treats ADHD, anxiety disorders, phobias, major depressive disorder, OCD, bipolar and mood disorders, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, and co-occurring developmental or neurological conditions.
(609) 228-9916 View (609) 228-9916
Photo of Gagandeep Singh - Gagandeep Singh, MD, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Gagandeep Singh, MD, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The practice of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, as well as Adult Psychiatry, is as exciting as it is varied. This specialty is truly one of the last bastions in modern medicine that allows the practitioner to 'connect' with the patient, and one where the value of the patient's input is not underestimated. My clinical interests include childhood and adolescent depression, other mood disorders, ADHD, child and adolescent anxiety disorders such as OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder. I also work with adults on all of the above issues. I look forward to helping you!
The practice of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, as well as Adult Psychiatry, is as exciting as it is varied. This specialty is truly one of the last bastions in modern medicine that allows the practitioner to 'connect' with the patient, and one where the value of the patient's input is not underestimated. My clinical interests include childhood and adolescent depression, other mood disorders, ADHD, child and adolescent anxiety disorders such as OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder. I also work with adults on all of the above issues. I look forward to helping you!
(609) 644-2978 View (609) 644-2978
Photo of Ngozi Nwobi - OCA Behavioral Health Services, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
OCA Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, PMHNP-B, APN
Serves Area
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. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to the COVID-19 Health Crisis.
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. Evaluation & Follow-up is now available via Telehealth due to the COVID-19 Health Crisis.
(732) 517-7681 View (732) 517-7681
Photo of Moshe Frances, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Moshe Frances
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Serves Area
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

See more therapy options for 07726

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07726

20+

Average cost per session

$200

Psychiatrists in 07726 who prioritize treating:

97% Depression
97% Anxiety
86% ADHD
83% Medication Management
79% Bipolar Disorder
72% Trauma and PTSD
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
75% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in 07726 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
23% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07726?

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.