Psychiatrists in 07727

Ruben Singh MD LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, DABPN
Farmingdale, NJ 07727
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
Dr. Mary Jane Maser
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APN
Serves Area
I am a Psychologist and an Advanced Practice Nurse in practice for over 35 years. I prescribe psychiatric medications that treat anxiety, depression and a wide range of other psychiatric symptoms. I address acute & chronic problems such as social anxiety, codependency, ADD/ADHD, relationship and marital discord including divorce with counseling and therapy in conjunction with medication. I also encourage organic problem-solving including exercise, music, spirituality, creativity, volunteering, being social with friends and family, etc. Finding balance in life shouldn't be difficult, I can help you find it.
I am a Psychologist and an Advanced Practice Nurse in practice for over 35 years. I prescribe psychiatric medications that treat anxiety, depression and a wide range of other psychiatric symptoms. I address acute & chronic problems such as social anxiety, codependency, ADD/ADHD, relationship and marital discord including divorce with counseling and therapy in conjunction with medication. I also encourage organic problem-solving including exercise, music, spirituality, creativity, volunteering, being social with friends and family, etc. Finding balance in life shouldn't be difficult, I can help you find it.
(848) 361-3480 View (848) 361-3480

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Dr. Tasia Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences. For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qbtech Testing .
My goal is to empower individuals to achieve mental well-being and resilience by offering personalized, compassionate care. I specialize in helping people who are struggling with disordered eating, ADHD, anxiety, and depression, as well as those navigating trauma and major life transitions. I provide comprehensive mental health solutions that prioritize your unique goals, values, and lived experiences. For those seeking family psychiatric care, I support individuals and their loved ones with care plans. I also offer medication management services and advanced tools like ADHD testing, including the FDA-cleared Qbtech Testing .
(848) 279-0533 View (848) 279-0533
Amanda Guarnere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Princeton, NJ 08540
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
There is no such thing as an "ideal client." Each individual is unique, and care will be tailored to fit patient needs.
(609) 798-7448 View (609) 798-7448
Natalia Sedlacek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Wall Township, NJ 07719
To schedule an appointment with me please call our office 908-233-8065. With over 15 years of experience in healthcare, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate their health concerns with compassion, clinical insight, and individualized care. I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions, always with an empathetic, holistic approach. I understand the courage it takes to seek help, and I am honored to walk alongside each individual on their journey toward healing.
To schedule an appointment with me please call our office 908-233-8065. With over 15 years of experience in healthcare, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate their health concerns with compassion, clinical insight, and individualized care. I specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing mental health conditions, always with an empathetic, holistic approach. I understand the courage it takes to seek help, and I am honored to walk alongside each individual on their journey toward healing.
(848) 847-6091 View (848) 847-6091
Adwoa Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Edison, NJ 08837
I am an experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctoral degree from Rutgers University. I have almost 10 years of experience in psychiatry where I've worked with children, adolescents, and adults addressing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, autism, substance use, life circumstances, and more.
I am an experienced Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctoral degree from Rutgers University. I have almost 10 years of experience in psychiatry where I've worked with children, adolescents, and adults addressing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, autism, substance use, life circumstances, and more.
(848) 360-5229 View (848) 360-5229
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Edison, NJ 08837
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families across the full spectrum of psychiatric care — including inpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient settings. With a strong nursing foundation, I take a humanistic, holistic approach — combining medication management with therapeutic strategies to help patients build coping skills, emotional regulation, and resilience. I see clients via secure telehealth across New Jersey, with in-person sessions at our Paramus offices.
I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families across the full spectrum of psychiatric care — including inpatient, intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization, and outpatient settings. With a strong nursing foundation, I take a humanistic, holistic approach — combining medication management with therapeutic strategies to help patients build coping skills, emotional regulation, and resilience. I see clients via secure telehealth across New Jersey, with in-person sessions at our Paramus offices.
(201) 977-2889 View (201) 977-2889
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Marlboro, NJ 07746
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
Dr. Jennie Boyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNPBC
Forked River, NJ 08731
Finding the right provider is an important step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being. I am a physician with doctorates in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, and I have spent many years helping individuals and families navigate mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing comprehensive care tailored to each person’s unique needs. My approach combines evidence-based psychiatric treatment with a holistic perspective, recognizing that mental health is deeply connected to physical health, lifestyle, and life circumstances.
Finding the right provider is an important step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being. I am a physician with doctorates in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, and I have spent many years helping individuals and families navigate mental health challenges with compassion and expertise. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing comprehensive care tailored to each person’s unique needs. My approach combines evidence-based psychiatric treatment with a holistic perspective, recognizing that mental health is deeply connected to physical health, lifestyle, and life circumstances.
(609) 507-2739 View (609) 507-2739
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
Sasha Joseph
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
I’m Sasha, a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience in Health Care. Her Harmony Mental Health is dedicated to helping individuals in New York combat mental health issues. I see clients from ages 13-65.
I’m Sasha, a Board-Certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience in Health Care. Her Harmony Mental Health is dedicated to helping individuals in New York combat mental health issues. I see clients from ages 13-65.
(929) 702-1525 View (929) 702-1525
Ricardo J. Fernandez
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAPA, ABAM
Princeton, NJ 08540
Our Mission is to provide highly individualized psychiatric care by specially trained experts. Working closely with the patient, the patient's family and other healthcare professionals, we develop a comprehensive treatment plan addressing biological, hormonal and psychosocial needs.In developing a clear diagnosis, we utilize comprenesive psychiatric testing in the evaluation phase to determine appropriate and effective treatment.Highly regarded within his field, Dr. Fernandez has almost 30 years experience in psychopharmacolgy and women's health. Quality of care is a priority.Patients are provided with round-the-clock access to their treating clinicians for emergencies and urgencies that cannot wait.
Our Mission is to provide highly individualized psychiatric care by specially trained experts. Working closely with the patient, the patient's family and other healthcare professionals, we develop a comprehensive treatment plan addressing biological, hormonal and psychosocial needs.In developing a clear diagnosis, we utilize comprenesive psychiatric testing in the evaluation phase to determine appropriate and effective treatment.Highly regarded within his field, Dr. Fernandez has almost 30 years experience in psychopharmacolgy and women's health. Quality of care is a priority.Patients are provided with round-the-clock access to their treating clinicians for emergencies and urgencies that cannot wait.
(609) 318-3045 View (609) 318-3045
Head to Health Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
I specialize in treating children and adolescents with behavioral and developmental disorders and mood spectrum disorders, from ages 3-21 but also treat some adults on a case-by-case basis. I have a plethora of experience with psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry) on all levels of issues, from simple problems in school to suicidal or self-harming behaviors.
I specialize in treating children and adolescents with behavioral and developmental disorders and mood spectrum disorders, from ages 3-21 but also treat some adults on a case-by-case basis. I have a plethora of experience with psychopharmacology (the art of prescribing medication in the field of psychiatry) on all levels of issues, from simple problems in school to suicidal or self-harming behaviors.
(732) 637-9205 View (732) 637-9205
Calley Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Wall Township, NJ 07719
Many clients I work with struggle with anxiety, depression, perinatal emotional changes, or eating-related concerns that affect their daily functioning and sense of self. They often seek relief from overwhelm, improved emotional balance, and greater self-understanding. Their goals include feeling calmer, more confident, and better equipped to navigate life transitions while building sustainable mental and emotional well-being.
Many clients I work with struggle with anxiety, depression, perinatal emotional changes, or eating-related concerns that affect their daily functioning and sense of self. They often seek relief from overwhelm, improved emotional balance, and greater self-understanding. Their goals include feeling calmer, more confident, and better equipped to navigate life transitions while building sustainable mental and emotional well-being.
(848) 360-3348 View (848) 360-3348
Abigail Dodoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
East Windsor, NJ 08512
I help adolescents, adults, older adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, stress, burnout, insomnia, and other mental health challenges. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns that interfere with their relationships, work, school, or daily life. Others are looking for answers after years of feeling misunderstood or want a provider who truly listens and develops a treatment plan tailored to their needs. My role is to help you gain clarity, understand your diagnosis, reduce distressing symptoms
I help adolescents, adults, older adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, stress, burnout, insomnia, and other mental health challenges. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or stuck in patterns that interfere with their relationships, work, school, or daily life. Others are looking for answers after years of feeling misunderstood or want a provider who truly listens and develops a treatment plan tailored to their needs. My role is to help you gain clarity, understand your diagnosis, reduce distressing symptoms
(609) 215-8962 View (609) 215-8962
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
Philip Heller
Psychiatrist, MD
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
I find helping people who want to make their life better and more satisfying the most rewarding part of my work. When I am with a patient, I see them for who they are and what gets in their way, rather than a list of symptoms. Looking and listening to people, where they are in their life and how their problems block them from expressing their underlying health is important in order for people to feel heard and understood. This is the basis for making an accurate diagnosis which is the foundation for all therapy, whether it be with or without the support of medication.
I find helping people who want to make their life better and more satisfying the most rewarding part of my work. When I am with a patient, I see them for who they are and what gets in their way, rather than a list of symptoms. Looking and listening to people, where they are in their life and how their problems block them from expressing their underlying health is important in order for people to feel heard and understood. This is the basis for making an accurate diagnosis which is the foundation for all therapy, whether it be with or without the support of medication.
(732) 770-4476 View (732) 770-4476
Shandel Douglas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, PMHNP
Toms River, NJ 08753
Don’t wait weeks to take the first step. First appointments are often available today or tomorrow. Hi, I’m a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience as an NP and more than 13 years in nursing. I’m board-certified in both Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Psychiatric-Mental Health, which allows me to take a well-rounded, integrative approach to care-supporting both your physical and emotional well-being. What drives me most is compassion and the belief that mental and physical health are deeply connected.
Don’t wait weeks to take the first step. First appointments are often available today or tomorrow. Hi, I’m a dual-certified Nurse Practitioner with over 8 years of experience as an NP and more than 13 years in nursing. I’m board-certified in both Adult-Gerontology Primary Care and Psychiatric-Mental Health, which allows me to take a well-rounded, integrative approach to care-supporting both your physical and emotional well-being. What drives me most is compassion and the belief that mental and physical health are deeply connected.
(908) 395-7949 View (908) 395-7949
Steven Dyckman
Psychiatrist, MD
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
My practice is built around the dedication to diagnose, treat, and offer preventative alternatives to provide mental health, hope, and self-empowerment to each patient. I understand the complex relationship between emotional suffering, illness, and other medical disorders. I specialize in providing treatment for ADD / ADHD, OCD, ODD, and Mood Disorders for patients of all ages. I have completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and will partner with young patients and their parents to provide an effective strategy to restore balance and harmony for all. Consultations are conducted to establish rapport and create a safe and trustworthy environment.
(732) 238-7711 View (732) 238-7711
Hatice Yilmaz
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
We specialize in treatment resistant DEPRESSION. As a board certified Child, Adolescent, & Adult psychiatrist, our team at Depression Doctors utilize evidence based and FDA approved treatments supported with solid research in treating your depression. At our center, we have been observing significant improvements in individuals with severe and chronic depression even if their symptoms did not improve with multiple antidepressants or combinations. Two cutting edge treatments for though-to-treat major depression are remarkably successful: TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) treatment.
We specialize in treatment resistant DEPRESSION. As a board certified Child, Adolescent, & Adult psychiatrist, our team at Depression Doctors utilize evidence based and FDA approved treatments supported with solid research in treating your depression. At our center, we have been observing significant improvements in individuals with severe and chronic depression even if their symptoms did not improve with multiple antidepressants or combinations. Two cutting edge treatments for though-to-treat major depression are remarkably successful: TMS Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) treatment.
(609) 722-7040 View (609) 722-7040

See more therapy options for 07727

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07727

< 10

Psychiatrists in 07727 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Bipolar Disorder
100% Medication Management
100% Marriage Counseling

Average years in practice

41 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Psychiatrists in 07727 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07727?

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.