Psychiatrists in 07728

Photo of Valerie DeGirolamo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, APN, RN
Valerie DeGirolamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP, APN, RN
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Tree of Life Counseling Center. I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career.
I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Tree of Life Counseling Center. I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career.
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
Photo of Valerie DeGirolamo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, RN
Valerie DeGirolamo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, RN
Freehold, NJ 07728
I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
I have worked in a variety of Mental Health settings throughout my career. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
Photo of Dr. Althea Andrade, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Dr. Althea Andrade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Freehold, NJ 07728
Althea Andrade is a DNP and PMHNP-BC experience in treating children, adolescence adults and geriatric population with various mental illnesses not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, mood disorders, Gender identity disorders, eating disorder etc. Currently licensed in NJ, NY, and FL. Graduated with Presidential honor at Chamberlain University and honors at Walden University . Strongly believe mental health is wealth, and with a dynamic treatment of medication combined with psychotherapy client will benefit a great deal and be able to function effectively in society. Strongly believe in the well-being of my patient
Althea Andrade is a DNP and PMHNP-BC experience in treating children, adolescence adults and geriatric population with various mental illnesses not limited to ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, mood disorders, Gender identity disorders, eating disorder etc. Currently licensed in NJ, NY, and FL. Graduated with Presidential honor at Chamberlain University and honors at Walden University . Strongly believe mental health is wealth, and with a dynamic treatment of medication combined with psychotherapy client will benefit a great deal and be able to function effectively in society. Strongly believe in the well-being of my patient
(732) 243-0765 View (732) 243-0765
CRP Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, APN, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
Christine Possemato has closed her private practice to medication management and is now prescribing at CPC Integrated Health. Please contact them at 800-250-9811 to schedule. All insurances accepted there. Specialties include eating disorders and peri/postnatal concerns. Visit www.crpbh.com for more info about Christine's services at CRP Behavioral Health.
Christine Possemato has closed her private practice to medication management and is now prescribing at CPC Integrated Health. Please contact them at 800-250-9811 to schedule. All insurances accepted there. Specialties include eating disorders and peri/postnatal concerns. Visit www.crpbh.com for more info about Christine's services at CRP Behavioral Health.
(908) 344-3728 View (908) 344-3728
Photo of Diane Rene-Oster, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Diane Rene-Oster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
23 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
You don't have to have it all figured out to reach out. My ideal clients are adolescents, adults, and seniors navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, schizophrenia, or grief — often carrying burdens they haven't yet been able to name. As a 9/11 survivor and former hospice nurse, I bring both clinical expertise and deeply personal experience to this work. I know firsthand what it means to face the unimaginable and find resilience on the other side — and that shapes how I show up for every person I work with. Together, we build a plan around your goals and your life.
You don't have to have it all figured out to reach out. My ideal clients are adolescents, adults, and seniors navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, schizophrenia, or grief — often carrying burdens they haven't yet been able to name. As a 9/11 survivor and former hospice nurse, I bring both clinical expertise and deeply personal experience to this work. I know firsthand what it means to face the unimaginable and find resilience on the other side — and that shapes how I show up for every person I work with. Together, we build a plan around your goals and your life.
(732) 696-7285 View (732) 696-7285
Photo of Gagandeep Singh - Gagandeep Singh, MD, LLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Gagandeep Singh, MD, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
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 Alison Griffin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Alison Griffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Freehold, NJ 07728
I provide psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood concerns, and life transitions. Many people come to BeeWell feeling unheard or rushed in previous care, looking for someone who takes the time to understand them fully. I listen closely and build treatment plans tailored to each person's unique strengths, challenges, and goals—so you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in moving forward.
I provide psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood concerns, and life transitions. Many people come to BeeWell feeling unheard or rushed in previous care, looking for someone who takes the time to understand them fully. I listen closely and build treatment plans tailored to each person's unique strengths, challenges, and goals—so you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in moving forward.
(848) 301-2865 View (848) 301-2865
Photo of Lori Price - Head to Health Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
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
Photo of Sajjad A. Zaidi, Psychiatrist, MD
Sajjad A. Zaidi
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
Sajjad Zaidi, M.D. is Medical Director and founder of Freehold Child Diagnostic Center, Inc. Dr. Zaidi is Triple Board Certified in Psychiatry/Neurology, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Zaidi's background has encompassed over thirty years of extensive and diverse experience in the field of Child, Adolescent & Family Psychiatry. Our office is located in Freehold NJ.
Sajjad Zaidi, M.D. is Medical Director and founder of Freehold Child Diagnostic Center, Inc. Dr. Zaidi is Triple Board Certified in Psychiatry/Neurology, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Zaidi's background has encompassed over thirty years of extensive and diverse experience in the field of Child, Adolescent & Family Psychiatry. Our office is located in Freehold NJ.
(732) 479-7241 View (732) 479-7241
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Freehold, NJ 07728
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
Welcome to the Cohen Center....Are you overstressed? Suffering anxiety, panic attacks, or ADD/ADHD symptoms? Perhaps you are struggling with insomnia or depression. These symptoms are easily treatable, sometimes requiring medication. Are you ready to take the first step? Are you willing to see if medication, ideally, combined with therapy can enhance your life? You will be monitored closely, so that you do not needlessly experience side effects and that optimal treatment gains are obtained. Careful attention will be focused on any physical illnesses. Often the approach leads to a more appropriate diagnosis and plan of treatment
(732) 675-0011 View (732) 675-0011
Photo of Latifah Idowu Oparison - Vioral Health and Behavioral Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
Vioral Health and Behavioral Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN
2 Endorsed
Freehold, NJ 07728
Are you looking for medication management and/or therapy? Our practice consists of a psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapists who work collaboratively to provide you with the best care possible. In addition to providing traditional outpatient services, we provide Intensive Out Patient (IOP) treatment for patients who would benefit from a group setting and more intensive support.
Are you looking for medication management and/or therapy? Our practice consists of a psychiatric nurse practitioner and psychotherapists who work collaboratively to provide you with the best care possible. In addition to providing traditional outpatient services, we provide Intensive Out Patient (IOP) treatment for patients who would benefit from a group setting and more intensive support.
(609) 795-1247 View (609) 795-1247
Photo of Asma Mian - Alexander Road Associates, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Road Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Freehold, NJ 07728
ARA has been serving the Princeton area for over thirty years. ARA offers psychiatry, psychotherapy, psycho/educational testing and substance abuse counseling for people of all ages. ARA is dedicated to providing thoughtful and compassionate integrated care for our patients. Psychiatrists and therapists collaborate to offer evidence-based treatments including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy and psycho-pharmacological intervention. ARA child, adolescent and adult psychiatrists are skilled in diagnosis & psychopharmacology. We offer genetic testing to assist in medication selection.
ARA has been serving the Princeton area for over thirty years. ARA offers psychiatry, psychotherapy, psycho/educational testing and substance abuse counseling for people of all ages. ARA is dedicated to providing thoughtful and compassionate integrated care for our patients. Psychiatrists and therapists collaborate to offer evidence-based treatments including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy and psycho-pharmacological intervention. ARA child, adolescent and adult psychiatrists are skilled in diagnosis & psychopharmacology. We offer genetic testing to assist in medication selection.
(609) 957-6887 View (609) 957-6887
Photo of Dr. Jason Cohen, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Jason Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Freehold, NJ 07728
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 Helena Correia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, -BC
Helena Correia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, -BC
Freehold, NJ 07728
Are you experiencing persistent feelings of being overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck or a sense of not feeling like yourself? When anxiety or depression linger, they can affect your energy and relationships, making everyday life feel harder. You don’t have to go through this alone. I take a holistic, collaborative approach to care—working with you to understand the causes of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your overall well-being. You can schedule an appointment at your convenience through Headway looking for my name or using the website link under website information on this page.
Are you experiencing persistent feelings of being overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck or a sense of not feeling like yourself? When anxiety or depression linger, they can affect your energy and relationships, making everyday life feel harder. You don’t have to go through this alone. I take a holistic, collaborative approach to care—working with you to understand the causes of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your overall well-being. You can schedule an appointment at your convenience through Headway looking for my name or using the website link under website information on this page.
(848) 356-4804 View (848) 356-4804
Photo of Indra Cidambi, Psychiatrist, MD
Indra Cidambi
Psychiatrist, MD
Freehold, NJ 07728
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments are by cash only - No insurance accepted
Dr. Cidambi is board certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine (ABAM). She completed her residency in Psychiatry from Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in Addiction Medicine from NYU/Bellevue. Dr. Cidambi was the Director of Chemical Dependency at New Jersey's oldest inpatient mental health/substance abuse hospital. In 2010, Dr. Cidambi started her own substance abuse treatment facility, Center for Network Therapy (RecoveryCNT.com), providing outpatient detoxification from alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates and suboxone, and partial care and IOP programs. All payments are by cash only - No insurance accepted
(732) 638-1209 View (732) 638-1209
Photo of Dr. Monica Ariyo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Dr. Monica Ariyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Freehold, NJ 07728
Dr. Monica Ariyo helps clients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Mood disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Schizophrenia, Psychosis, Psychiatric evaluation, and medication management.
Dr. Monica Ariyo helps clients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Mood disorders, Trauma and PTSD, Schizophrenia, Psychosis, Psychiatric evaluation, and medication management.
(609) 834-3241 View (609) 834-3241
Photo of Dr. Rabica Shahid, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Rabica Shahid
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
I don’t just treat a diagnosis; I care for the whole person. When you or your loved one is struggling, it can feel like you’re being defined by a set of symptoms. My approach is different. I believe that mental wellness is deeply intertwined with your physical health, your environment, and your unique life story. As a psychiatrist, I aim to be your partner in healing—offering a compassionate, non-judgmental space where your voice is heard, and your journey is respected.
I don’t just treat a diagnosis; I care for the whole person. When you or your loved one is struggling, it can feel like you’re being defined by a set of symptoms. My approach is different. I believe that mental wellness is deeply intertwined with your physical health, your environment, and your unique life story. As a psychiatrist, I aim to be your partner in healing—offering a compassionate, non-judgmental space where your voice is heard, and your journey is respected.
(848) 847-6092 View (848) 847-6092
Photo of Nerlande Charles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Nerlande Charles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Serves Area
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 Lydia Keise - Insyte Psychiatric, Psychiatrist, MD
Insyte Psychiatric
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist . I see individuals in need of medication management. I strongly believe that clients should be well informed about their treatment . Clients participate in treatment planning and their needs are always taken into consideration. My clients feel well cared for and walk away knowing that at all times I have their best interests in mind. It is my hope that clients feel we are taking a journey together in terms of their treatment. I specialize in postpartum depression, major depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol abuse, psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder.
(732) 515-5089 View (732) 515-5089
Photo of Rebecca Florence Mizrahi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Rebecca Florence Mizrahi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
People say I have a fun-loving and caring attitude and I am naturally optimistic. I have 10+ years of experience in the medical field and the majority of it was on the front lines of inpatient detox. Psych, especially addictions, is my calling and I’m so lucky to have found my niche so quickly.
People say I have a fun-loving and caring attitude and I am naturally optimistic. I have 10+ years of experience in the medical field and the majority of it was on the front lines of inpatient detox. Psych, especially addictions, is my calling and I’m so lucky to have found my niche so quickly.
(732) 889-5596 View (732) 889-5596

See more therapy options for 07728

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 07728

40+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in 07728 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
85% Medication Management
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% ADHD
70% Trauma and PTSD
68% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
86% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
81% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in 07728 see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 07728?

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.