Psychiatrists in 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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby

Serene Minds Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
At Serene Minds Center (SMC), we utilize a holistic approach to mental health treatment. We listen, never judge or label. But our goal is to assess, diagnose, treat, and restore mental health and overall wellness. I'm a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with broad experience in delivering compassionate mental health care. I worked for years as a psychiatric nurse, delivering care in many different settings. I bring that expertise to instill hope, enhance recovery, and reinstate optimal all-inclusive health. I look forward to working with you in your wellness journey.
At Serene Minds Center (SMC), we utilize a holistic approach to mental health treatment. We listen, never judge or label. But our goal is to assess, diagnose, treat, and restore mental health and overall wellness. I'm a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with broad experience in delivering compassionate mental health care. I worked for years as a psychiatric nurse, delivering care in many different settings. I bring that expertise to instill hope, enhance recovery, and reinstate optimal all-inclusive health. I look forward to working with you in your wellness journey.

Taylor Marie Zembricki
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spotswood, NJ 08884
Dr. Taylor Zembricki is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing practice from Rutgers University. Her style can be described as person-centered, goal-directed and compassionate. She incorporates a multitude of psychotherapeutic techniques, depending on what best fits your needs. She uses an integrative approach, with a thorough understanding of the mind-body connection, treating her patients' in the most holistic way possible.
Dr. Taylor Zembricki is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who received her Doctorate in Nursing practice from Rutgers University. Her style can be described as person-centered, goal-directed and compassionate. She incorporates a multitude of psychotherapeutic techniques, depending on what best fits your needs. She uses an integrative approach, with a thorough understanding of the mind-body connection, treating her patients' in the most holistic way possible.

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.

Nicholas LaCorte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNPBC, RN, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Imagine what your life could be after taking a leap of faith. The first step is always the hardest but if it changes your life for the better why not see where it leads you. Whether you suffer from depression and anxiety, ADHD or codependency issues I can help. I have helped build confidence, improve assertion and self esteem. I have helped decrease co-dependence and build independence. Reach out to me if you're ready for change, or even if you're contemplating it and are anxious or unsure about what to expect.
Imagine what your life could be after taking a leap of faith. The first step is always the hardest but if it changes your life for the better why not see where it leads you. Whether you suffer from depression and anxiety, ADHD or codependency issues I can help. I have helped build confidence, improve assertion and self esteem. I have helped decrease co-dependence and build independence. Reach out to me if you're ready for change, or even if you're contemplating it and are anxious or unsure about what to expect.

Ololade Ekwere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP , PhD(c)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You may schedule your appointment at www.healing-garden-psych.com Accepting NEW Patients! Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has practiced for over 12 years in various capacities in healthcare serving patients and their families. Because she understands the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, she works collaboratively with each patient to prioritize and meet their mental health needs. Additionally, she is empathetic, listens, and practices using evidence-based guidelines in order to provide the best available care for her patients.
You may schedule your appointment at www.healing-garden-psych.com Accepting NEW Patients! Ololade "Lola" Ekwere is a Board Certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has practiced for over 12 years in various capacities in healthcare serving patients and their families. Because she understands the interconnectedness of mental and physical health, she works collaboratively with each patient to prioritize and meet their mental health needs. Additionally, she is empathetic, listens, and practices using evidence-based guidelines in order to provide the best available care for her patients.

Blessing Nwele Apn-Bc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.

Julie embraces a holistic approach to mental healthcare treatment, and understands the importance of incorporating multiple healing methods within each healing plan.
Julie embraces a holistic approach to mental healthcare treatment, and understands the importance of incorporating multiple healing methods within each healing plan.

HealMed Clinic and Manhattan Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manalapan, NJ 07726
Providing in-person 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 and will provide psychopharmacological treatment and supportive counselling if needed
Providing in-person 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 and will provide psychopharmacological treatment and supportive counselling if needed

I specialized in addiction psychiatry, skilled board-certified psychiatrist, particularly interested in the mind-body connection and utilizing a creative and cooperative pathway to wellness. While providing an expert opinion, Dr. Wassef very much is interested in working together with you. So, in a caring fashion, a careful assessment of your symptoms is conducted, including a full medical history, to then devise a treatment plan. Dr. Wassef also specialize in Depression with TMS.
I specialized in addiction psychiatry, skilled board-certified psychiatrist, particularly interested in the mind-body connection and utilizing a creative and cooperative pathway to wellness. While providing an expert opinion, Dr. Wassef very much is interested in working together with you. So, in a caring fashion, a careful assessment of your symptoms is conducted, including a full medical history, to then devise a treatment plan. Dr. Wassef also specialize in Depression with TMS.

Anthony DiMura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Telepsych offered for most clients. As a mental health consumer myself, I understand the damper mental illness can have on your life. What once made you happy leaves you dull, things you looked forward to make you feel anxious, and the people around you are concerned. You may feel hopeless and helpless and have tried therapy and medication in the past with little success. Spending time to listen to you is what I do best. Medication is not always needed, but when it is you will have the education to make an informed decision of how you want to proceed. I believe in quality of service, not quantity. You time should be Your time.
Telepsych offered for most clients. As a mental health consumer myself, I understand the damper mental illness can have on your life. What once made you happy leaves you dull, things you looked forward to make you feel anxious, and the people around you are concerned. You may feel hopeless and helpless and have tried therapy and medication in the past with little success. Spending time to listen to you is what I do best. Medication is not always needed, but when it is you will have the education to make an informed decision of how you want to proceed. I believe in quality of service, not quantity. You time should be Your time.

I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Walden University in 2020 with my MSN and focus in psychiatry as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for about seven years with experience in inpatient psychiatry, medical surgical, ER crisis management, forensic and detox nursing. Psychiatry is dear to my heart and I enjoy advocating for mental healthcare. The mind, body and soul make up wellness and health, so without the proper mental health treatment, holistic care is incomplete.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I graduated from Walden University in 2020 with my MSN and focus in psychiatry as a nurse practitioner. I have been a nurse for about seven years with experience in inpatient psychiatry, medical surgical, ER crisis management, forensic and detox nursing. Psychiatry is dear to my heart and I enjoy advocating for mental healthcare. The mind, body and soul make up wellness and health, so without the proper mental health treatment, holistic care is incomplete.

It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.

Kara Rafael is a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, renowned for her comprehensive expertise in adolescent and adult mental health. Kara earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, which was followed by an accelerated nursing program at New Jersey City University, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further advanced her specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health with a master’s degree from Monmouth University. Kara’s professional path is marked by significant experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where she has adeptly managed a spectrum of mental health diagnoses.
Kara Rafael is a distinguished board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, renowned for her comprehensive expertise in adolescent and adult mental health. Kara earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, which was followed by an accelerated nursing program at New Jersey City University, leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further advanced her specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health with a master’s degree from Monmouth University. Kara’s professional path is marked by significant experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, where she has adeptly managed a spectrum of mental health diagnoses.

My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.
My name is Alexis Holmes, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have offered behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults. I also have a solid background in intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for alcohol and substance abuse. I bring compassion, extensive knowledge, and a deep understanding of prescription medications, diagnostic testing, and clinical assessment to my practice.

As a PMHNP-BC, I bring more than 18 years of healthcare experience. I am highly knowledgeable about diverse acute & chronic mental health concerns. My focus is on the treatment of mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, substance abuse, & chronic mental illness. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, & brief psychotherapeutic intervention for adolescents 13+, adults, and through the lifespan. I believe in creating an individualized plan of care that values client involvement, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice with patients and families.
As a PMHNP-BC, I bring more than 18 years of healthcare experience. I am highly knowledgeable about diverse acute & chronic mental health concerns. My focus is on the treatment of mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, substance abuse, & chronic mental illness. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, & brief psychotherapeutic intervention for adolescents 13+, adults, and through the lifespan. I believe in creating an individualized plan of care that values client involvement, interprofessional collaboration, and evidence-based practice with patients and families.

I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.

Natalya Csatari
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I utilize a comprehensive approach to any struggle the client may be going through with medication paired with psychotherapy. My goal is to get the client in a place of confidence and fully functioning in their life as well as their relationships. This is done by giving the highest quality of care and customizing a treatment plan for each individual.
I utilize a comprehensive approach to any struggle the client may be going through with medication paired with psychotherapy. My goal is to get the client in a place of confidence and fully functioning in their life as well as their relationships. This is done by giving the highest quality of care and customizing a treatment plan for each individual.

My ideal client is open, honest, and eager to learn about their diagnosis and treatment options. They seek a holistic approach, including diet, exercise, journaling, yoga, and meditation, alongside traditional medication management. Their goal is to heal and achieve mental wellness with minimal reliance on medication, valuing a comprehensive plan that empowers them to take charge of their mental health.
My ideal client is open, honest, and eager to learn about their diagnosis and treatment options. They seek a holistic approach, including diet, exercise, journaling, yoga, and meditation, alongside traditional medication management. Their goal is to heal and achieve mental wellness with minimal reliance on medication, valuing a comprehensive plan that empowers them to take charge of their mental health.

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.
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% | Eating Disorders |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Other |
Average years in practice
40 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in 07727 see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.